Drama at Blogger Albert Ojwang’s Burial as Widow Refuses to Throw Soil Into Grave
Heartbreak, tension, and raw emotions unfolded at the burial of slain Homa Bay blogger Albert Ojwang, whose mysterious death in a police cell shocked the nation.
Ojwang was laid to rest at his father’s home, but his widow, Nevnina Omondi, stole the show with a dramatic refusal to perform one final act of farewell — throwing soil into her husband’s grave.
As family, friends, and mourners gathered in sorrow, all eyes turned to the grieving young widow, who stood silently by the graveside. Dressed in all black and holding their young son close, she refused the symbolic soil when it was handed to her by the bishop.
“Do not force her. Only give her if she wants to. Let her do it only when she wants to,”
said one of the preachers at the gravesite.
Despite this, one man attempted to place soil in her hand, prompting swift intervention from other mourners.
Father Crushed by Grief
The late blogger’s father broke down as his son’s coffin was lowered. His words pierced the quiet countryside.
“My dreams have gone with him. He was my only child,”
he lamented.
His voice trembled. His pain was felt by all who stood around him.
Mother Curses Villager Over Arrest
Ojwang’s mother, overwhelmed by sorrow and anger, cursed the villager who led the police to her homestead. She believes that moment sealed her son’s fate.
“You destroyed my only child,”
she cried, as mourners wept with her.
Widow’s Fiery Last Words Spark Political Fire
Though she did not throw soil, Nevnina found her voice. Switching to fluent Dholuo, she eulogized Ojwang with love and rage. She didn’t just grieve — she called for action.
“His birthday is on July 7. Let us honour him. Come out in large numbers on Saba Saba Day,”
she told the crowd.
Her passionate plea connected Ojwang’s death to the ongoing Gen Z-led protests across the country.
“He was a good man. He believed in justice. We must not let his death be in vain,”
she added, holding back tears.
Clashing Traditions and Beliefs
The widow’s refusal sparked online debates. Many questioned her motive, while others defended her choice. According to Pastor Joseck Omwasi, cultural beliefs and religious practices often clash.
“Religiously, it’s not a must for a widow to throw soil. It’s symbolic, not spiritual. In some traditions, however, refusal is seen as disrespect,”
He emphasized that personal conviction or deep grief can justify the act.
Online reactions were mixed. Some sympathized with her, while others criticized her decision:
@Otief: “She was strong for the baby all through, but this is a bad picture.”
@Achola: “This woman is a red flag.”
@Nyar Harry: “Maybe dowry wasn’t paid. She’s just right.”
@Doty: “Men, your parents will be with you to the last minute, not your wife.”ALSO READ: Youth Carrying Albert Ojwang’s Body Set Mawego Police Station on Fire
Drama at Blogger Albert Ojwang’s Burial as Widow Refuses to Throw Soil Into Grave
