The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC), in collaboration with the Assets Recovery Agency (ARA), has announced that the public auction of seized assets linked to former Migori Governor Okoth Obado’s seized properties will officially begin on June 23, 2025.
The assets, valued at KSh428 million, were surrendered following an out-of-court settlement between Obado and the anti-graft agency in 2024.
EACC CEO Abdi Ahmed said the auction represents a major milestone in the government’s efforts to reclaim public resources allegedly lost through corruption. He, however, rued one particular behaviour among Kenyans.
“The problem we have with politicians is mainly their supporters, not the politicians themselves, because you will find the public wants you to investigate a politician but it’s the same public that defends them,” he said, underscoring the difficulties faced in holding powerful figures accountable.
Among the properties listed for auction are high-value real estate holdings in Nairobi, including luxurious homes in Loresho Ridge estimated at KSh40 million, a three-bedroom apartment in Riara going for KSh22 million, two apartments and a maisonette in the Greenspan area worth a combined KSh32.5 million, and a partially developed plot in Runda with an estimated value of KSh50 million. Also included in the auction are two Toyota Land Cruisers believed to have been acquired through illicit proceeds.
This recovery effort stems from two separate investigations: one targeting unexplained wealth amounting to KSh1.9 billion, and another related to proceeds of crime totaling KSh73 million.
Following the Nairobi auction, additional rounds will be conducted in Kisumu and Migori counties, where more of Obado’s properties are located. All proceeds will be deposited into the Consolidated Fund, supporting public development initiatives in education, health, and infrastructure.
According to EACC, the move not only aims to return stolen wealth to the public but also sets a strong precedent in the fight against corruption, where accountability is enforced, and justice is served beyond the courtroom.
