Boniface Nyamu, a senior Nairobi County official, has been revealed as a key player in a sprawling corruption network that is choking the city’s vital sectors. Originally appointed as the Chief Officer of Mobility and Works, Nyamu’s recent transfer to the Business and Hustler Opportunities docket has only expanded his corrupt empire. Now, his influence runs rampant across Nairobi’s transport and bar licensing sectors, wreaking havoc on local businesses and the city’s economy.

Despite promises to clean up the city, Nyamu’s unchecked corruption and extortion racket have left business owners desperate, with no clear end in sight.

Targeting Bar, Nightclub Owners and Restaurants

Nyamu’s greed has stretched into Nairobi’s thriving bar and nightclub industry, particularly along key corridors such as Kiambu, Thika, and Lang’ata Roads. Business owners, already weighed down by taxes, licenses, and compliance regulations, are now facing relentless harassment and intimidation by Nyamu and his infamous enforcer, City Inspectorate officer Mr. Busienei, also known as “Bush.”

“Nyamu has turned the licensing process into a personal ATM. We are being squeezed to the point of closure,” said Captain Maina, a representative of Nairobi’s bar and nightclub owners.

In a shocking revelation, owners have disclosed that Nyamu demands bribes of up to Ksh 500,000 each weekend for businesses to operate without disruption. On top of that, establishments are forced to pay exorbitant fees under the guise of licensing and compliance inspections. The illegal demands have become so severe that many businesses are operating on the brink of financial ruin.

“Our businesses contribute to the economy and provide jobs, yet we are being extorted at every turn,” said one nightclub owner from Lang’ata. “Nyamu’s team is constantly harassing us, threatening closure if we don’t comply with their demands.”

The level of extortion has reached a point where even fully compliant establishments are being forced to pay these illegal fees. Small business owners, unable to keep up with the bribes, are being driven out of the industry entirely.

Corruption in Nairobi’s Transport Sector

While Nyamu’s official role has shifted away from the Mobility and works, his influence over Nairobi’s transport sector remains stronger than ever. Multiple reports indicate that Nyamu continues to issue backdated and fraudulent authorizations for matatu operators, allowing them to operate illegally in areas previously untouched by such disorder.

“Matatus are being allowed to set up new pick-up and drop-off points within the CBD, and other key areas—all thanks to Nyamu’s backdoor dealings,” said a representative from a leading matatu Sacco.

Nyamu’s continued involvement in the transport sector has led to mounting chaos. Legal operators, who strive to follow regulations, are being overshadowed by those willing to pay bribes for illicit authorizations. His continued ability to manipulate the transport system suggests that Nyamu is protected by powerful allies within the political sphere.

Political Protection and Rumored Ties to Higher Powers

Rumors of Nyamu’s connections to influential political figures have swirled for months, particularly his alleged ties to Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua. Insiders speculate that Nyamu’s unchecked corruption in the transport sector is part of a broader political maneuver aimed at sabotaging efforts to reform the city’s transport woes. The ongoing feud between powerful figures over Nairobi’s decongestion strategy has only fueled these suspicions.

Nyamu’s unchecked reign has also led many to believe that his actions are part of a larger scheme, with powerful backers shielding him from accountability. This political protection has allowed Nyamu to act with impunity, further entrenching his extortion schemes in both the transport and business sectors.

Sexual Harassment Allegations and Intimidation of County Staff

The corruption surrounding Nyamu extends beyond financial misdeeds. Numerous female staff members within Nairobi County have come forward with allegations of sexual harassment at the hands of Nyamu. His unchecked arrogance has fostered a toxic work environment, with staff reporting bullying, intimidation, and erratic behavior.

“Nyamu behaves as though he’s untouchable, both in his corruption and his harassment of employees,” said one county staff member. “It’s beyond financial misconduct; it’s about power and control.”

Despite numerous complaints from staff and from the public, no action has been taken against Nyamu, further highlighting the systemic failure within the county’s oversight mechanisms. Employees describe an atmosphere of fear, where anyone who dares to speak out is met with threats or demotions.

Public Outcry and Calls for Accountability

As Nyamu’s corruption continues unchecked, public outcry has reached a fever pitch. Business owners, matatu operators, and everyday Nairobians are demanding action. Many have called upon the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) to investigate Nyamu and dismantle the corrupt network that has entrenched itself in City Hall.

A number of business owners have taken their grievances to social media platforms and prominent bloggers, urging them to expose Nyamu’s schemes. Cyprian Nyakundi, a well-known anti-corruption blogger, has already begun sharing damning details of Nyamu’s operations, shining a spotlight on the depth of corruption within Nairobi’s leadership.

Even the Nairobi Liquor Licensing Board, under respected businessman Mike Rabar, has raised concerns about the unchecked influence of rogue officials like Nyamu. The board, responsible for maintaining order in the entertainment sector, finds its regulatory efforts thwarted by Nyamu’s illegal demands.

The City at a Crossroads

With Nairobi’s future hanging in the balance, the growing corruption scandal around Boniface Nyamu poses a critical test for city leadership. If bold action is not taken to dismantle Nyamu’s corrupt network, the city’s hard-won progress risks unraveling. The livelihoods of business owners, the safety of staff, and the trust of the public are at stake as this scandal unfolds.

Nyamu, once seen as just another cog in Nairobi’s corrupt machine, has now risen to become a central figure in the city’s fight for transparency and accountability. Without immediate intervention, his stranglehold on Nairobi’s economy and governance will continue to deepen, jeopardizing the city’s future and undermining the very principles of good leadership.

The city stands at a tipping point—will it choose to clean house or let Nyamu’s corrupt empire continue to reign supreme?