Deputy Inspector General of Police Eliud Lagat has officially been summoned by the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) to record a statement in connection with the controversial death of Albert Ojwang, a teacher and social media influencer who died while in police custody. This follows mounting public pressure for transparency and accountability in a case that has sparked nationwide protests and widespread outrage over alleged police brutality.
In a statement dated June 16, 2025, Lagat confirmed that he had stepped aside from office “in good and conscious thought” of his responsibilities, citing the ongoing investigation as the reason for his temporary withdrawal from duty.
“I have today opted to step aside… pending completion of investigations,” Lagat stated.
IPOA Summons DIG Lagat Amid Ongoing Investigations
The IPOA announced the summons on Wednesday, June 18, stating that sufficient grounds had been established to warrant Lagat’s appearance before their investigations team.
“Further, having found basis, IPOA has issued a summons to the Deputy Inspector General of Police, Eliud Lagat, to appear before the authority’s investigations team to record a statement,” said IPOA Chairperson Isaack Hassan.
The authority also disclosed that it had obtained DVR footage from the Central Police Station, where Ojwang was detained, and that the footage was undergoing forensic analysis. In addition, biological samples collected have been submitted to the Government Chemist for examination.
IPOA is also working with mobile service providers to retrieve phone data linked to persons of interest in the case.
“To help in the investigations into the murder of Mr. Ojwang, IPOA has made a miscellaneous application to mobile service providers to supply mobile phone data for analysis,” the statement added.
Ojwang’s Arrest and Death: A Timeline of Events
Albert Ojwang was arrested on June 7, 2025, reportedly following a complaint filed by DIG Lagat. The complaint alleged that Ojwang had published false and malicious information about the senior police officer on his social media platforms.
Shortly after his arrest, Ojwang was detained at Central Police Station, Nairobi, where he later died under unclear and deeply troubling circumstances. His death has since been categorized by the public and civil society groups as a custodial killing, prompting renewed calls for police reform and justice for victims of police violence.
The Kenya Human Rights Commission and other advocacy groups have called for an independent autopsy, the release of all CCTV footage from the police station, and immediate legal action against all officers implicated.
OCS Samson Talam in Custody as Probe Widens
In a related development, Central Police Station OCS Samson Talam is also under active investigation for his alleged role in Ojwang’s death. IPOA has already secured extended custody orders for Talam to allow for continued interrogation and evidence collection.
Sources close to the investigation revealed that Talam’s access to the holding cells, along with chain-of-custody logs and command communications during Ojwang’s detention, are all under scrutiny.
IPOA has not ruled out more arrests or disciplinary actions depending on the outcome of the ongoing forensic, digital, and testimonial evidence.
Public Outrage and Protests Over Ojwang’s Death
Ojwang’s death has triggered a wave of protests across major towns in Kenya, with demonstrators demanding the prosecution of all officers involved. In Nairobi, protests have grown increasingly tense, with incidents of looting, violence, and, most notably, the close-range shooting of an unarmed hawker by anti-riot police on June 17 further escalating tensions.
Many Kenyans view the response to Ojwang’s death as a litmus test for the government’s commitment to tackling police abuse and enforcing constitutional protections.
“The death of Albert Ojwang is not just another tragedy—it’s a turning point,” said one protester at a vigil held in Nairobi’s CBD. “The public is tired of silence, cover-ups, and impunity.”
DIG Lagat Under Spotlight
DIG Lagat’s role has come under intense scrutiny, especially since he was reportedly the originator of the complaint that led to Ojwang’s arrest. His decision to step aside is being interpreted in various ways—some see it as a responsible move, while others claim it’s a public relations tactic meant to deflect growing criticism.
“Stepping aside is not enough. He must cooperate fully and publicly with IPOA and the courts,” said Law Society of Kenya President Faith Odhiambo. “We must ensure this does not become another unsolved case swept under the rug.”
So far, no charges have been filed against Lagat, and IPOA has not confirmed whether he is a witness, suspect, or person of interest in the case. However, his involvement from the beginning of the incident has placed him at the center of the ongoing national conversation.
Political and Civil Society Reaction
The developments have prompted strong reactions from Kenya’s political class and human rights community. Opposition leader Kalonzo Musyoka has called for Lagat’s immediate suspension, not just a voluntary stepping aside, pending the outcome of investigations.
“Accountability must not be optional. We’ve seen too many times where officers implicated in serious human rights abuses walk away unpunished,” said Kalonzo.
Civil society organizations such as Amnesty International Kenya, Kituo cha Sheria, and MUHURI have urged IPOA and the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) to act swiftly and independently.
What Next? Anticipated Protest on June 25
As Kenya prepares for another nationwide protest on June 25, organized in memory of Gen Z demonstrators and victims of police brutality, public expectations are high that authorities will act decisively in the Ojwang case.
Organizers of the upcoming protest have warned that failure to prosecute those responsible could lead to further unrest.
In preparation, police have already begun deploying additional personnel in key towns and city centers, while religious leaders and peace-building organizations are calling for calm and constructive dialogue.
Conclusion: A Moment of Reckoning
The summons issued to DIG Eliud Lagat marks a critical juncture in the search for justice for Albert Ojwang. It reflects growing momentum within state oversight bodies to not only investigate but also hold high-ranking officials accountable.
However, Kenyans remain cautious, weary from decades of unfulfilled promises of reform. As IPOA continues its probe, the nation watches—and waits—for justice to not only be done but be seen to be done.