Maurice Ogeta, a former gym instructor at The Nairobi Club, has recalled how he helped former Prime Minister Raila Odinga leave a Nairobi hotel under suspicious circumstances in 1997 after more than 10 men in black suits reportedly arrived seeking an unannounced meeting.
Speaking to Citizen TV, Ogeta said he became suspicious and disguised Odinga in his tracksuit and cap before escorting him through an emergency exit and across the hotel kitchen.
Despite the tense situation, Ogeta recalled that Odinga remained remarkably composed, even stopping to pick up and eat a piece of fruit during the escape. Ogeta admitted that he was more frightened than the man he was determined to protect.
Rather than use Odinga’s waiting vehicle, Ogeta opted for a taxi to take him safely to Parliament. He also recalled misleading the men searching for Odinga by directing them to Room 1607 on the hotel’s 16th floor, which he said did not exist.
Ogeta believes his quick thinking helped avert a potentially dangerous encounter. The incident reportedly strengthened their relationship, with Ogeta later joining Odinga’s team after the former Prime Minister learnt of his actions.
