Former Nyeri Town Member of Parliament (MP) Ngunjiri Wambugu has raised serious questions over security failures following the attack on former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and the vandalism of his vehicles during a church service in Othaya, Nyeri County, on Sunday, January 25, 2026.

Taking to his official Facebook page hours after the incident, Wambugu expressed disbelief at what he described as unusual and suspicious lapses in standard security protocol surrounding high-profile political figures.

According to the former aide to the Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) leader, the drivers and security detail failed his former boss during the incident.

VIP protection

He argues that VIPs have drivers and guards who usually stay near the car during events, but Gachagua’s drivers were absent when the vehicles were vandalised at the church’s parking lot.

“VIPs around & including Jofri have drivers & armed guards. Drivers don’t leave the vicinity of the car during events. But somehow all the drivers of the vehicles with Jofri today, including his, were not near their cars when they were attacked,” Wambugu stated.

Wambugu’s statement seems to suggest that the incident might have been stage-managed, which Gachagua has denied.

Murkomen orders probe

Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has since announced the immediate launch of police investigations following a chaotic church service at Witima ACK Church in Othaya, Nyeri County, which saw teargas deployed and Gachagua’s vehicles vandalised.

In a statement on Facebook on Sunday, December 25, 2026, Murkomen said he had noted the incident with great concern, emphasising that violence anywhere, and least of all in a place of worship, is unacceptable.

He added that he had spoken with Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja, who assured him that investigations are underway with urgency and that the perpetrators would be brought to justice.

Murkomen urged law enforcement to act without fear or favour and called on the public to remain calm while authorities address the matter. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to upholding the right to lawful assembly and freedom of worship.