Oga Obinna has firmly denied claims circulating on social media suggesting that he fled the country following the death of Father John Maina Ndegwa. The entertainer addressed the rumors, which gained traction after a Facebook user alleged that he had been spotted at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA), supposedly leaving Kenya shortly after the priest’s death.
Father John Maina, who served as the parish priest of Igwamiti Catholic Parish, tragically died three weeks after hosting a high-profile event attended by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua. The priest was reportedly abducted and brutally assaulted with a blunt object before being abandoned by the roadside in Kikopey, Gilgil, Nakuru County—about 50 kilometres from his parish. He later succumbed to his injuries while receiving emergency treatment at a local hospital.
The connection between Gachagua’s visit and Maina’s death sparked intense speculation. Adding fuel to the fire was Obinna’s recent interview with Gachagua, during which the politician made some emotionally charged claims, including that President William Ruto had once cried while asking for his support in the run-up to the presidential election. In that interview, Gachagua described Ruto’s tears as evidence of his suffering under the previous administration, which ultimately swayed him to back Ruto.
The timing of these events caused some social media users to draw unfounded links between the interview, Maina’s death, and Obinna’s alleged departure from the country. One viral post claimed Obinna had been seen leaving Kenya soon after learning about the priest’s murder.
In response, Obinna took to his own platform to clear the air, stating unequivocally that he had nothing to hide. “Surely. I have not done anything. I have not wronged anyone,” he stated, pushing back against the assumptions and dismissing the rumors.
Supporters flooded the comments with messages of reassurance and even humor. Some told Obinna to stay safe, while others reminded him he had nothing to fear since he was simply the host of the interview, not responsible for his guest’s statements. A few joked about his bodyguard, Munez, advising Obinna to keep him fit and ready for anything. Others referenced his involvement in the “wheelbarrow” campaign, a widely recognized symbol associated with Ruto’s rise to power.
In a related disclosure, Obinna recently revealed that he played a key role in developing the wheelbarrow campaign concept in 2021, a move that significantly contributed to Ruto’s political messaging. He said he came up with the idea alongside fellow creative Anto Neosoul but claimed that despite the campaign’s success, he was never compensated or even acknowledged. Obinna mentioned that several notable political figures were aware of his contribution and expressed disappointment over being overlooked after playing such a pivotal role.
Despite the swirling rumors and controversy, Obinna maintains his innocence and continues to engage with his fans, many of whom have shown him unwavering support during this challenging moment.