Kisumu nightclub The Otro is facing intense public backlash after a reveler was allegedly beaten to a pulp and left for dead, sparking widespread condemnation across social media platforms.
A disturbing photo of the victim, identified as Lennox, bloodied and unconscious, circulated widely online early Monday, prompting furious reactions from a section of Kisumu residents. Many called for justice, accusing the club of brutality and negligence.
In response to the growing uproar, The Otro management issued a statement attempting to distance itself from the incident. The note, seen by Kenyan Tabloid Online, claims the assault occurred approximately 300 meters away from the club’s premises. According to the club, Lennox had earlier engaged in a violent confrontation with security personnel while trying to prevent the ejection of a friend. The statement alleges that Lennox became aggressive, assaulted a guard, and even brandished a knife before fleeing the scene.
The club further claimed that plainclothes police officers intervened after shouting “mwizi” (thief) was heard, leading to a chaotic scene where Lennox was reportedly overwhelmed by a mob before police could protect him.
“The client who was assaulted confronted our security personnel at the entrance by preventing his friend from being ejected from the premises. He became violent, threw punches, drew a knife, and attacked our security guard, who later sought hospital treatment and reported the matter,” the club’s statement read in part.
The management added they are willing to provide CCTV footage and other evidence, including images of the alleged stabbing incident, to support their version of events. However, many online commentators have dismissed the statement as untruthful and poorly crafted.
Pius Omudho, a respected figure in Kisumu’s entertainment circles and former manager of musician Prince Indah, criticized the club’s communication, terming it “reckless” and “an embarrassment.”
“Is this thing from the club management or was it written on the streets? This is reckless, shame!” Omudho posted.
Lennox was reportedly discovered early Monday morning in a pool of blood near Sega Sega in the Obunga slums by passersby, who rushed him to Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital (JOOTRH) for urgent treatment.
Online outrage continues to grow, with many demanding accountability and questioning the safety measures employed by nightlife establishments in Kisumu.
Here is a sample of the reactions from furious online users:
