Gospel musician Alex Apoko, popularly known as Ringtone, is expected in court today over a contentious land ownership case involving a prime parcel of land in Karen, Nairobi. The 0.5-acre property, valued at approximately Sh50 million, has been the subject of an ongoing legal battle in which Ringtone is accused of attempting to fraudulently acquire the land.
The case revolves around allegations that Ringtone, in collaboration with a co-accused, Alfred Juma Ayora, conspired to defraud Teresiah Adhiambo of the land identified as Nairobi Block 99/142, measuring 0.1908 hectares (0.47 acres). According to the charge sheet, the two are alleged to have planned to take over the land through fraudulent means, with Ringtone claiming adverse possession—arguing that he had lived on the property for over 20 years.
The case has seen multiple delays largely due to Ringtone’s failure to appear in court. A warrant of arrest was first issued by Milimani Senior Principal Magistrate Dolphina Alego in early April after Ringtone missed several court sessions. He was expected to appear on May 7, 2025, but failed to do so, prompting the court to push the matter to May 12.
On May 12, Ringtone again failed to attend court, with his lawyer informing the magistrate that the musician was still unwell and admitted at Trinity Care Centre in Ngong, Kajiado County. The court has now directed that the prosecution and investigating officer either produce Ringtone in court today or provide a clear direction on how the matter will proceed.
His co-accused, Alfred Ayora, was present in court on March 28 and pleaded not guilty to the charges. The pre-trial proceedings have been held up as the court awaits Ringtone’s plea and medical recovery.
Magistrate Alego emphasized that the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) must now determine the next course of action regarding the pending plea and the enforcement of the arrest warrant.
