George Nyang’ira Oduor, the long-serving security aide to ODM leader Raila Odinga, was laid to rest on Saturday in an emotionally charged ceremony at his rural home in Ndori, Rarieda Sub-county, Siaya County. The burial, held at Ramba High School grounds, attracted a high-powered delegation of political heavyweights, signaling the depth of his impact across the national leadership.
Oduor, who passed away on Wednesday, April 9, at a Nairobi hospital following a brief illness, was 57.
Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, President William Ruto, Kisumu Governor Anyang’ Nyong’o, and Siaya Governor James Orengo led the nation in bidding farewell to a man described as loyal, disciplined, and fiercely dedicated.
An emotional Odinga, visibly shaken, compared Oduor’s death to the loss of his son Fidel in 2015, calling the pain “unbearable.”
“George was part of our family,” Odinga said, pausing to compose himself. “It’s been ten years since we lost Fidel, and now George is gone. So painful indeed. If you say there’s a person ready to take a bullet for you, it is George. I only know a few people who can be as dedicated as him.”
Kisumu Governor Anyang’ Nyong’o lauded Oduor for his professionalism and humility, recalling how he served as a key liaison to Odinga for many within the political and security circles.
“He took immense pride in his work,” Nyong’o said. “Focused, disciplined, and deeply committed—George was the model of service.”
In a rare show of bipartisan respect, President William Ruto delivered a moving tribute, revealing how he too had personally experienced Oduor’s protective presence during politically charged moments.
“Though we belonged to different political camps, I saw George’s courage firsthand,” said Ruto. “In many tense situations, George was there. Always calm, always ready.”
Oduor had served as Raila Odinga’s personal bodyguard since 1995, earning widespread admiration as a quiet but firm guardian of one of Kenya’s most iconic leaders. His nearly 30-year tenure in one of the country’s most sensitive and visible security roles was marked by unwavering loyalty, discretion, and humility.
Described by close associates as warm, respectful, and principled, Oduor’s death marks the end of an era in Kenya’s political landscape—an era safeguarded by his silent but steadfast presence.
As the sun set over the rolling hills of Rarieda, mourners filed past his grave, many still in disbelief at the loss of a man who stood in the shadows but whose presence shaped the safety of political giants.
May his soul rest in eternal peace.
