Nyayo Estate Residents to Demonstrate Over Alleged NSSF Land Grab

Embakasi East MP Babu Owino has publicly backed Nyayo Estate residents in their dispute with the National Social Security Fund (NSSF) over alleged land seizure. Owino claims NSSF is attempting to sell and allocate public utility land within Nyayo Estate and Tassia, arguing that such land should remain for community use.

The MP warned that any conversion of open spaces and community facilities for private gain is unacceptable. He emphasized that the land belongs to the estate's residents and cannot be illegally seized or fenced off. Owino stated that the land serves thousands of residents, including those for schools, recreation, drainage, roads, and other essential community facilities.

Residents are set to hold a peaceful demonstration on Friday, August 14, to protest the alleged land grab. The Nyayo Embakasi Residents Association (NERA) organized a public meeting on August 2 where residents decided to take action over the issue. Initially, the protest was scheduled for August 6, but it was disrupted by police, leading to the arrest of nine youths. The residents were later advised by police to give a three-day notice before staging another demonstration.

Despite submitting a formal notice to Embakasi Police Station on August 6, NERA did not receive any formal response or guidance from the police. The association rescheduled the protest to August 14 after a second public baraza held on the same day. The residents aim to protect the open spaces, recreational areas, and other utility facilities within Nyayo Estate from what they consider unlawful allocation.

Owino pledged his support for the residents in their efforts to safeguard the public spaces, emphasizing that Nyayo Estate belongs to the people and its public facilities should remain for the community. He called for the protection of public utility land and warned against its conversion for private gain.