A fourth-year social science student at the University of Nairobi, charged on Tuesday with preparation to commit a felony after being found in possession of petrol, has claimed that the fuel was intended for his motorbike, which he uses for daily transport to campus.
Benard Wangila Ojiambo denied the charge of preparing to commit a felony, specifically arson. Through his lawyer, Danstan Omari, Wangila explained to Senior Principal Magistrate Robinson Ondieki that he owns a motorbike, which serves as his primary mode of commuting to the university.
Omari told the court that on the day of the arrest, Wangila’s motorbike had run out of petrol. As a result, he opted to hire another motorbike to purchase petrol to refuel his own bike at home.
He further argued that Wangila relies on his motorbike for income, engaging in bodaboda (motorbike taxi) business to support himself and pay his tuition fees. The lawyer emphasized that, due to challenges posed by the new university funding model, which has left many students struggling without Higher Education Loans Board (HELB) funds, Wangila was merely trying to make ends meet.
Omari urged the court to disregard the prosecution’s allegations and release the student so he could continue with his studies.
According to the charge sheet, Ojiambo was arrested on September 9, 2024, along Harry Thuku Road in Nairobi County. He was allegedly found in possession of a five-liter jerry can filled with petrol, which the prosecution argued suggested an intention to commit arson.
The prosecution opposed Wangila’s release on bond or bail, pending the hearing and determination of the case.
The court will mention the matter on Wednesday for a ruling on the bail and bond application.
