Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja on Tuesday, January 20 moved to stop ongoing demolitions in Mukuru kwa Njenga, terming the exercise illegal, inhumane, and carried out without due process.

Speaking on the ground in Mukuru kwa Njenga, Governor Sakaja faulted the agencies behind the demolitions, saying they acted without notice, consultation, or coordination with the county government. He said residents were forced to flee their homes as bulldozers moved in, leaving families terrified and uncertain about their future.

“It is very unfortunate that we wake up to several agencies coming together to demolish houses without any notice or proper communication,” Sakaja said. “People are being forced to run for their lives as bulldozers destroy homes that are still occupied. There is a clear process that must be followed, even when constructing access or feeder roads. We are not against development, but we are against inhumane and unlawful processes.”

The governor emphasized that the Nairobi County Government was not aware of the operation and insisted that those behind it knew they were acting outside the law. He added that neither the President nor the county had sanctioned the demolitions.

“As Governor of Nairobi, I will not allow this,” he said. “We are here to serve the people, not to chase them away or demolish their homes in this manner. This is not how public service is done.”

Sakaja recalled a similar incident in 2021—before he assumed office—when demolitions in the area were halted after public outcry. He called for dialogue and an amicable approach that respects the rights and dignity of residents.

Tensions remained high as a heavy police presence was deployed in the area, with residents expressing fear of displacement from one of Nairobi’s most densely populated informal settlements. The governor directed all agencies involved to cease operations immediately, pending proper engagement and adherence to the law.