Gen. Jeje Odongo blames  Apaasi deadly  clashes on Rival Supporters  who attempted to grab Firearm.

Gen. Jeje Odongo Abubakar has explaiend circumstances that led to a deadly confrontation in Apasi Village, Ogongora Sub-county, Orungo County, where one person was killed and at least 10 others sustained gunshot wounds during clashes involving rival political supporters.

Speaking to the media, Gen. Jeje said some supporters became aggressive and attempted to grab a firearm from one of the security officers. It was during the struggle for the gun that shooting occurred,

Giving an account, the general  explained, that day began peacefully after residents of Apaasi requested a radio and sound system to celebrate the New Year.

He said he honoured the request to allow the community to enjoy the festivities.

Gen. JJ Odongo revealed that he had initially planned to personally travel to Apaasi Trading Centre to join the celebrations. However, before setting off, he said he received intelligence warning him of an alleged plan by some individuals to harm him.

“Because of that information, I decided not to rush to the venue,” he said. “Instead, I sent my security team ahead to assess the situation and ensure the area was secure before I could proceed.”

According to his account, as his security team arrived at the venue, another vehicle carrying an estimated 30 to 50 people also arrived.

He identified them as supporters of his rival, Madam Teddy Anyuk Osiire, the NRM flag bearer for Orungo County. He alleged that the group was carrying stones and logs of wood.

Gen. Jeje further claimed that the rival group set up a separate sound system at the same venue and began playing music alongside the one already provided, an action he said appeared intended to draw crowds away. He noted that the move did not attract many people, which later contributed to rising tensions.

“This situation created confusion between supporters of the two camps,” he explained. “The atmosphere became tense, and arguments began to break out.”

He said security personnel on the ground intervened to calm the situation and prevent escalation.

However, the confrontation allegedly intensified when some supporters became aggressive and attempted to grab a firearm from one of the security officers.

“It was during the struggle for the gun that shooting occurred,” Gen. Jeje said.

In his address, Gen. Jeje condemned the violence and expressed condolences to the bereaved family.

“I extend my condolences to the family of Mr. Eteru Saidi. This is a tragic incident that should not have happened,” he said, adding that the loss of life should not be linked to political competition.

He called on his supporters, the youth, and the wider community of Orungo County to remain calm and peaceful as the campaign period continues. He urged the public to allow police and other security agencies to conduct their investigations.