Turkana MP Ariko Held Over Alleged Attack on Governor’s Son
Turkana South MP John Namoit Ariko will remain in custody over the weekend following his remand alongside eight others for allegedly assaulting Turkana Governor Jeremiah Lomurukai’s son.
Ariko was arrested in Eldoret on Thursday night, and later released, but voluntarily appeared in court on Friday.
Senior Resident Magistrate Cherono Kesse ordered the suspects to remain in custody until Monday, December 30, 2024, when she will rule on their bail application.
The MP and his co-accused denied the charges and requested bail. Ariko is facing two charges, including conspiracy to obstruct justice under Section 117(a) of the Penal Code.
Police allege that between April 29 and early May 2024, Ariko and others falsely accused the governor’s son, a minor, and Lavish Esiwet Ekamais of kidnapping Sammy Ekitela, also known as Whensonko.
The second charge claims the MP knowingly obstructed police officers from executing a criminal process during the same period.
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“It’s not true, your honor,” Ariko stated in court after the charges were read.
Other suspects include Peter Lokutuni, Davis Nangiro, Jemostar Akooyen, Bornfestus Nabuin, Joseph Ekitela, Sammy Ekitela, and James Abel. They face charges ranging from assault causing bodily harm to possession of stolen property and forgery.
The alleged assault occurred on April 29, 2024, at Cherinas Homes in Turkana Central. Prosecutors, led by Mark Mugun, opposed bail, citing risks of witness interference.
Victims’ lawyer Richard Warigi supported the objection, claiming some suspects had used social media to intimidate victims. Defense lawyers argued the case was politically motivated.
Magistrate Kesse confirmed she will rule on the bail application on Monday at 2:30 PM.
Turkana MP Ariko Held Over Alleged Attack on Governor’s Son
