Gospel musician Alex Nyachonga Apoko, popularly known as Ringtone, has been charged with conspiracy to defraud in connection with a KSh 50 million land parcel. Ringtone, alongside his co-accused Alfred Juma Ayora, allegedly claimed false long-term residency on a plot of land located in Nairobi, leading to a high-profile legal battle that has captivated public attention.
The disputed property, identified as NAIROBI/BLOCK 99/142 and measuring approximately 0.1908 hectares, is said to belong to Teresiah Adhiambo Odhiambo. Court documents indicate that Ringtone and Ayora conspired to fraudulently acquire ownership of the land. As part of the scheme, Ayora is accused of swearing a false affidavit and providing misleading testimony to the Environment and Land Court in an attempt to bolster their claims of ownership.
Ringtone was arrested on March 27, 2025, and arraigned in court the following day, where he and Ayora both pleaded not guilty to the charges. Despite their plea, the court denied them bail, citing the gravity of the accusations and potential risks associated with their release. Both men were remanded at Industrial Area Prison, pending a bail hearing scheduled for May 19.
In addition to the conspiracy charge, Ayora faces two extra charges of false swearing and perjury. He is accused of making false statements under oath before an advocate and submitting the fraudulent affidavit during legal proceedings aimed at claiming the property. These allegations highlight the lengths to which the two allegedly went to seize ownership of the land.
The court’s decision to deny bail underscores the severity of the charges and the implications of falsifying legal documents in property disputes. Fraudulent claims over land ownership have long been a concern in Nairobi, often leading to prolonged legal battles and public outcry. The accusations against Ringtone have further fueled this conversation, especially given his prominence in the gospel music scene.
As news of the case spread, social media platforms were ablaze with reactions from fans and critics alike. Many expressed shock and disbelief, questioning how a well-known gospel artist could find himself entangled in such a scandal. Others took a more humorous approach, poking fun at Ringtone’s public persona and his frequent boasts of wealth. Some users questioned the authenticity of his riches, hinting that his lavish lifestyle may have been built on more than just musical success.
The incident has also reignited discussions about the accountability of public figures, especially those in religious and entertainment spaces. With Ringtone being a prominent face in the gospel community, his legal troubles have sparked debates on moral conduct and transparency among celebrities who claim to represent faith-based values.
The case is set to continue, with the court expected to rule on the bail application on May 19. Should Ringtone and his co-accused be found guilty, they could face significant legal consequences, including imprisonment and the possibility of compensating the rightful landowner. Until then, the public waits to see how this legal drama will unfold and whether justice will be served in this high-stakes property dispute.
