Petitioner seeks ouster of NCIC chair over alleged corruption, integrity breaches

The petition accuses him of abuse of office, financial mismanagement, and questionable academic qualifications.

Filed by Elizabeth Ochieng, the petition outlines a series of claims against Dr. Kobia, including presiding over alleged financial improprieties, issuing irregular employment contracts, and undermining constitutional standards of public leadership.

The allegations, she argues, have significantly compromised transparency, accountability, and public confidence in the Commission.

According to Ochieng, previous attempts to raise these concerns through internal mechanisms were allegedly met with delays and inaction, leaving her with no choice but to escalate the matter through formal channels.

Among the key accusations is the irregular issuance of two contracts to former NCIC CEO, Dr. Skitter Wangeci — one spanning three years and another for five years.

The latter contract, the petitioner claims, allowed Dr. Wangeci to benefit from a government mortgage scheme meant for state officers, despite allegedly not meeting the eligibility criteria.

Ochieng contends that the move constitutes fraudulent misrepresentation and violates Chapter Six of the Constitution, which governs integrity in public service.

The petition further accuses Dr. Kobia of engaging in unauthorized financial activities, including withdrawals from confidential funds without board approval, securing overdrafts in contravention of the Public Finance Management Act, and approving high-cost foreign travel despite budget constraints.

Under his leadership, the NCIC is alleged to have accumulated debts exceeding Ksh.200 million within three years — a financial burden that has left several suppliers unpaid, with some pursuing legal action.

In addition, the petitioner raises concerns over the authenticity of Dr. Kobia’s academic credentials, alleging that he may have submitted forged academic documents during his appointment process.

Ochieng is now calling for the relevant oversight authorities to launch an independent investigation, recommend Dr. Kobia’s removal from office if found culpable, and implement stricter financial oversight mechanisms at the NCIC to protect public resources and restore public trust.