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Itumbi clashes with Ndegwa Njiru over Othaya church tear-gassing incident
26th January, 2026 01:54 AM
The head of the Creative Economy and Special Projects in the Executive Office of the President, Dennis Itumbi, has reacted to the chaotic events at ACK Witima Church in Othaya on Sunday, January 25, 2026.
Speaking on X, Itumbi addressed reports involving a child caught up in the tear-gassing, urging caution and accuracy in reporting.
Itumbi wrote, “Wacha uongo. Lawyer Ndegwa Njiru. This child is alive and safe. Must you and your team lie to score political points?”
Dennis Itumbi’s message came as a caution to those spreading unverified claims about worshippers affected during the incident.
The tear gas disrupted the service and caused panic among churchgoers, including young children who were caught up in the melee.
Earlier, lawyer Ndegwa Njiru had posted about the incident, saying, “A five years old innocent child who was tear-gassed today at ACK Witima Church has passed on.
“Her only offense was to believe in God and to search God’s heart. RIP dear child. Now @kipmurkomen you’re a hero.”
Leaders comment
Several political leaders have linked the chaos to the former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.
Murang’a Woman Representative Betty Maina and former Nyeri Town MP Ngunjiri Wambugu suggested that the tear-gassing and live bullet disruptions were orchestrated, while Githunguri MP Gathoni Wamuchomba described the events as part of a planned script.
Earlier after the chaotic incident, Gachagua himself expressed gratitude for his safety during the incident.
“I thank God for His mercy and kindness. I thank the residents of Othaya for helping my private security to evacuate me to safety.
“I request thousands of my supporters waiting in Othaya Town and Kiawara to peacefully go home as our vehicles have been disabled and sound systems dismantled.
“Please note that the killer squad backed by local police are all over the two venues and we don’t know their intention after failing to assassinate me inside a church.
“My gratitude to all leaders and the people of Kenya for condemning this heinous act. God is in control and His power surpasses that of William Ruto,” Gachagua wrote on Facebook.
Call for calm and safety
Itumbi urged the public and media to remain responsible when reporting incidents, stressing that safety and accurate information must take priority.
The events have sparked concern over security at public gatherings and the need to ensure worshippers are protected from harm.
