A university professor has tragically lost his life in a violent incident related to a land dispute in Rusinga, Homa Bay County. Professor Tom Odhiambo, a lecturer at the Technical University of Kenya (TUK), was brutally attacked and hacked to death by two young men while inspecting his disputed land. The assault also left his father seriously injured.
The incident is said to have stemmed from a long-standing dispute over land boundaries. Some neighbors had encroached upon Prof Odhiambo’s land, leading him to seek intervention from local authorities. In response, a visit was scheduled with the area chief and a land surveyor to resolve the matter and establish clear land boundaries.
On the day of the attack, Prof Odhiambo and his father arrived at the disputed land ahead of the chief and surveyor. They were met by two young men who had a confrontation with the professor. During the dispute, one of the men attacked Prof Odhiambo with a machete, hacking him repeatedly on the head. The violent assault led to Prof Odhiambo’s death on the spot.
His father, who was present during the attack, also suffered injuries but survived. He was quickly rushed to the nearby Mbita Sub-county Hospital for treatment. Meanwhile, the body of the slain professor was taken to the MED 25 Kirindo Mortuary.
Local authorities have since launched an investigation into the incident, but no arrests have been made yet. The attack has sent shockwaves through the community, particularly in the academic circles, as Prof Odhiambo was known for his contributions to the education sector. This violent act has also highlighted the ongoing tensions and dangers surrounding land disputes in many parts of Kenya.
Authorities have assured the public that they are taking the matter seriously, with the chief and other local officials promising to bring the perpetrators to justice. However, tensions remain high in the area, as many residents are concerned about the safety of their properties amid escalating land conflicts.
