Chunky Love urges nganya operators to abandon dangerous stunts after Detat matatu kills 5
Radio presenter Chunky Love has issued a passionate appeal to nganya operators, urging them to abandon dangerous driving stunts known as “Manyoka,” following the fatal Komarock matatu crash involving the customised vehicle Detat that left at least five people dead.
Speaking on Friday, June 5, 2026, Chunky said he remains a strong admirer of Kenya’s vibrant nganya culture, praising the creativity, lighting systems, music, and energetic atmosphere that have made matatus a unique part of Nairobi’s public transport identity.
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He noted that the experience of boarding the vehicles, especially during evening rides home, has become a defining part of urban culture.
“By the way, personally, I do not like it when a nganya starts doing those Manyoka stunts. And by the way, I am a big fan of the Nganya culture. I love how the nganyas look—the lights, the music, and everything about them, and the hype as well, even the vibe when you board it en route home,” he said.
However, he expressed concern that the same culture is now being overshadowed by risky stunts that endanger lives on the roads.
The radio presenter said he does not support the practice of “Manyoka” driving, describing it as dangerous and irresponsible due to the high likelihood of matatus losing control during sharp, high-speed swerves.
He contrasted it with what he described as safer forms of performance, such as controlled bouncing, which he said some operators still use for entertainment without necessarily endangering passengers.
“But now those Manyoka stunts, no. The reason why I am saying I don’t like those stunts is that there is a matatu that crashed yesterday called Detat, and there is another one which crashed last week as well, all because of the same stunts. So how about these nganya operators? How about we quit the stunts?” he added.
Concern after fatal crashes
The customised Komarock matatu rolled over in a nighttime accident that has since sparked national concern over safety in the matatu industry.
Another similar crash involving a different matatu in recent days has also intensified scrutiny over the use of performance stunts on public roads, with industry observers warning that the trend is becoming increasingly dangerous.
Appeal to operators
Chunky then urged nganya operators to reconsider the culture of showmanship behind the wheel, saying the loss of life should be a wake-up call for the industry.
He said drivers are often influenced by peer pressure and younger crew members who push for more dramatic stunts to entertain passengers and social media audiences, a trend he believes is contributing to confusion and unsafe decisions on the road.
According to him, matatu operators should instead focus on preserving the positive aspects of the nganya culture while prioritising passenger safety.
“Because so many people have lost their lives. I think around five people or maybe seven died in that Detat crash. I know matatus have many stunts they do, and I feel like the one where they make the matatu bounce is okay, but the other one of Manyoka, where the matatu does swift turns at high speed, is crazy,” he added.
He warned that continued reliance on high-risk driving styles could lead to more accidents, loss of life, and increased public backlash against the entire industry.
“Chances of overturning are always very high. And I usually find it very cringe when I see videos of matatus doing those stunts while there are people hanging on the door and others with their heads and bodies out of the windows,” he shared.
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Steve Ireri
Steve is a senior writer with over four years of experience in digital journalism. His focus is on the showbiz and human interest stories. Emails: [email protected] , [email protected]
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