Lomorukai under pressure to sack officials over Sh600 million graft scandal

Turkana Governor Jeremiah Lomorukai is under growing pressure to reorganize his administration following investigations by the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) into the alleged misappropriation of Sh600 million.

Sources disclosed on Wednesday that no fewer than eight top county officials are being investigated, with further arrests anticipated as the probe progresses.

So far, the EACC has frozen assets worth over Sh180 million believed to be linked to corrupt dealings, with the investigation still ongoing.

In a recent operation conducted last week, EACC officers seized Sh6.5 million in cash hidden inside a private vehicle owned by Turkana County's Finance Executive.

The cash was reportedly concealed in secret compartments, raising concerns about a well-organized theft ring embedded within the county administration.

The revelations have triggered widespread outrage among locals, civil society organizations, and political leaders, all calling for a complete shake-up of the county executive and the immediate resignation of those linked to the scandal.

Turkana South MP Ariko Namoit was among the first to react, stating, "We can’t remain silent. Anyone found culpable must step aside. Our people are suffering while others hide money in their vehicles."

Turkana North MP Shariff Nabuin Ekuwam backed Namoit's remarks, lamenting the lack of development despite the billions allocated to the county.

"Turkana has received massive funding, yet our people remain trapped in poverty. Where are the projects? Where is the development? This rampant looting must come to an end," Ekuwam was quoted as saying by the Standard.

In villages such as Kalokol, Lokichoggio, Nakukulas, Loperot, and Lokori, residents have voiced their anger over deteriorating public services.

Many communities continue to suffer from acute water shortages, under-resourced schools, and health centers that lack even basic medical supplies.

Mary Apakol, a mother of five from Lokori, expressed her anger over the scandal, saying, "It’s insulting to hear that millions were found in someone’s car while our children go to bed hungry. What kind of leadership is this?"

David Lotee, a youth leader, echoed similar frustrations and urged for change within the county’s leadership. “The people are demanding a reshuffle. We need honest, capable leaders—not looters,” he said.

Civil society representative Peter Enyenai also weighed in, warning that continued inaction could lead to public demonstrations.

"If nothing is done, people might be compelled to protest peacefully in the streets. But for now, we still trust our institutions. Let EACC carry out its mandate, and let those involved face the law," he said.

Senator James Lomenen cautioned against protecting any individuals implicated in the scandal, stating, "There should be no sacred cows. This isn’t about political sides—it’s about justice and restoring the public’s trust."

Meanwhile, behind the scenes, the EACC is reportedly tracing the movement of the stolen funds, with investigators suspecting that the money may have been funneled through fictitious tenders, non-existent projects, and dubious suppliers.

The commission has pledged to pursue and recover every shilling lost to corruption.

"We are following the money trail. Those involved must face justice," said EACC CEO Abdi Mohamud.

Governor Jeremiah Lomorukai is yet to make a direct statement on the unfolding scandal, but the pressure on him continues to intensify.

Frustrated residents now see this as a defining moment for his leadership—either to take firm action or risk being seen as complicit.

Nancy Ekai, a teacher in Loperot, voiced the public’s growing impatience: "We are exhausted. The Governor must stop shielding those involved. It’s time to clean house. We don’t need more speeches—we need real action."