Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja was on Saturday, August 3, 2024, forced to flee from Toi Market in Kibera after residents started pelting him with stones.
Sakaja’s security detail was forced to form a human shield and whisk him away as the angry residents expressed their wrath.
The governor had visited the residents after a huge fire burnt down the market on Saturday morning, destroying goods and property of unknown value.
At least four people were reported dead in the incident, including a child burnt beyond recognition.
“Visited traders affected by fire incidents at Toi Market and later at Umoja 2. Poleni sana to all affected and condolences to the bereaved. Sadly, we lost 4 souls in the Toi inferno. We will support their families during this trying time. For the traders, we will rebuild and help you get back to your feet,” Sakaja said.
“Thanks to the first responders and all who tried to help salvage the situation. We had a total of 7 fires across the city last night, and all affected will get support. For those who caused incitement, it is well, nothing will stop us from supporting our people.”
At least 2,000 traders were affected by the fire, which according to Toi Market chair Kenneth Jumba, was started intentionally.
“We have never received the report on what caused the fire that we experienced last year. We are used to them,” Kenneth said.
Sifuna on Toi market incident
Speaking after the fire incident, Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna called for compensation of traders at the Toi market who are counting their losses.
“I have spoken to area MP Peter Orero who confirms four people tragically lost their lives. My deepest condolences to the families of the victims and the entire Toi family.”
This is not the first time traders at the Toi market have left counting losses following the fire blazes. On June 11, 2023, properties worth millions of Kenyan shilling were burned down during the inferno at started in the wee hours.
