In the quiet town of Rarieda, Siaya County, a solemn silence fell over the land on April 12, 2025. People from all walks of life—leaders, family members, friends, colleagues, and ordinary Kenyans—gathered in unity to bid a final goodbye to a man who never sought the limelight but was always present in the shadows, ensuring the safety of one of Kenya’s most prominent political figures. The send-off of George Nyang’ira Oduor, long-time bodyguard of the Right Honourable Raila Amollo Odinga, was more than a funeral—it was a deeply moving tribute to loyalty, selflessness, and duty.
A Life Lived in the Shadows, Honoured in the Light
George Oduor was not a man whose name frequently appeared in headlines. He did not stand on podiums or give fiery speeches. Yet, he stood in the wings, ever watchful, ever prepared, and always devoted to protecting the life of his principal. His passing brought to the forefront the often-unsung heroism of those who dedicate their lives to the safety of others. His funeral was not just a farewell; it was a moment of national reflection, of gratitude, and of respect.
From the moment news of his death broke, tributes began to pour in. Social media platforms flooded with messages of condolence, not just from politicians and dignitaries, but from everyday Kenyans who had caught a glimpse of the silent guardian beside Raila over the years. A man of few words and immense strength, George had become a symbol of quiet dedication and impeccable professionalism.
The Final Journey Begins
The journey to his final resting place began with a church service at Ramba Boys High School in Rarieda. The atmosphere was thick with emotion. A large white tent stood as the central place of gathering, filled to the brim with mourners dressed in black and navy-blue attire. A mix of Christian hymns and Dholuo dirges filled the air as the casket, draped in national colours and surrounded by flowers, was carried in.
The presence of top leaders highlighted the gravity of the moment. President William Ruto, Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, ODM leader Raila Odinga, former President Uhuru Kenyatta, Cabinet Secretaries, Governors, MPs, Senators, and MCAs from across the political divide all stood shoulder to shoulder. In that moment, political affiliations melted away in the face of shared grief.
Raila Odinga, visibly emotional, sat beside his wife Ida Odinga, who was especially affected by the loss. George had not only served Raila but had also been part of Ida’s close protection team and had built a strong bond with the Odinga family. As Raila took to the podium, his voice cracked with emotion.
“I have known George for many years. He was not just my protector—he was like a son. A man ready to take a bullet for me without hesitation. I’ve walked through many dangerous paths, and George was always behind me, ahead of me, beside me. This is a pain I cannot describe,” Raila said, drawing tears from many in the crowd.
From Humble Beginnings to International Training
George’s story is one of dedication and steady rise. Born in the early 1970s in Siaya County, he grew up in a modest home and was known even in his youth for his calm and collected nature. He joined the police force in the early 1990s and served with distinction. His path would change dramatically when he was recruited into the security team of Jaramogi Oginga Odinga, Raila’s father and one of Kenya’s founding fathers.
Through diligence and commitment, George later transitioned into Raila Odinga’s personal security team. Over time, his loyalty and skill earned him the role of the principal bodyguard. He underwent advanced security training in South Africa, Israel, and the United States, acquiring skills that made him one of the most trusted members of Raila’s inner circle.
His ability to remain calm under pressure, read the mood of crowds, and detect potential threats before they materialized made him invaluable. He was a human shield, a silent observer, a disciplined professional who asked for nothing but gave everything.
A Final Goodbye Whispered in Pain
George Oduor’s health deteriorated suddenly in early April 2025. He was admitted to Nairobi West Hospital and placed in the Intensive Care Unit. Despite the efforts of medical professionals, his condition worsened.
Silas Jakakimba, a close associate of Raila Odinga, gave a touching narration of George’s final moments. According to Jakakimba, Raila visited the hospital in the hope of seeing George one last time. Though weak and heavily sedated, George opened his eyes momentarily and whispered the word “erokamano”—Luo for “thank you.”
That single word was loaded with meaning. It was a farewell, a gesture of appreciation, a final expression of loyalty even as life slipped away.
A Nation Mourns Together
As the funeral progressed, speaker after speaker rose to pay tribute. President William Ruto spoke highly of George, stating, “George may not have been in the political arena, but he was a patriot. A man who believed in service and who carried himself with dignity and humility. We honour his sacrifice.”
Other speakers echoed this sentiment. From Governors like James Orengo to MPs such as Opiyo Wandayi, everyone remembered George not only as a protector but as a man with a kind heart, a gentle soul who inspired trust and confidence.
His fellow security personnel, some in civilian clothes and others in uniform, stood in formation as a show of respect. One of them, holding back tears, said, “He trained many of us. He was our mentor. He taught us that true protection comes not from brute force but from understanding people, anticipating situations, and remaining invisible but present.”
Ida Odinga: A Personal Loss
Perhaps no tribute was more heartfelt than that of Ida Odinga. Her relationship with George spanned decades, and he had become more than a bodyguard—he was like family. “He was my protector, but he was also a friend. He understood when I was tired, when I was anxious, when I needed support. George was always there. I feel like a piece of me is gone,” she said, her voice heavy with grief.
The Final Resting Place
The burial site, nestled in the green hills of Siaya, was prepared with great care. As the casket was lowered into the ground, silence fell once again. Only the sobs of mourners and the cries of loved ones broke the stillness. A 21-gun salute, executed by the Kenya Police Service, marked the final farewell.
George’s widow, Caren Auma Oduor, stood beside their children, clutching a framed photo of her husband. She was stoic, yet the pain was evident. “He was my rock, our provider, our guide. We have lost a father, but the country has lost a hero.”
Remembering the Man Behind the Badge
As the ceremony ended, mourners began to disperse, but the memories lingered People spoke in hushed tones about moments they had shared with George. Some remembered him pulling them aside with a quiet word of caution, others recalled his dry wit and sharp observational humour. He was known for saying little, but when he spoke, people listened.
In the days following his burial, tributes continued to pour in. A memorial fund was set up to support his family. Artists and poets began composing pieces in his honour. A section of Ramba Boys High School was proposed to be renamed in his memory.
The Cost of Loyalty
George Oduor’s life and death raise profound questions about the silent heroes of our society. Bodyguards, drivers, security officers, aides—men and women who dedicate their lives to protecting others, often with little recognition. What is the cost of loyalty? What toll does it take on the family members left behind? And how can a nation ensure that the contributions of such individuals are never forgotten?
George’s story reminds us that true service does not always wear medals. Sometimes, it wears a simple suit, stands in the background, and watches over us without ever asking for applause.
A National Call to Honour and Protect
In a rare moment of unity, politicians across the divide called for better recognition and welfare support for security personnel. It was suggested that a national medal be posthumously awarded to George Oduor, and that security officers assigned to VIPs receive not just better training but also better compensation and mental health support.
The Office of the President confirmed that the State would contribute to George’s children’s education fund and provide financial support to his family. It was a small gesture for a man who gave so much.
Legacy Carved in Loyalty
As Kenya moves forward, the legacy of George Oduor remains a powerful reminder of what it means to serve. In a world where loyalty is rare and sacrifice often unrewarded, George stood tall. He gave his all—quietly, humbly, and with total devotion.
He did not seek fame. He did not chase wealth. He simply did his job—day in, day out—with a level of commitment that few can match.
Conclusion: Farewell to a Hero, Farewell to a Hero
George Oduor may have taken his final bow, but his memory will never fade. He was more than a bodyguard. He was a protector, a mentor, a father, a husband, a friend, and above all, a hero.
In honouring George, we honour every unsung Kenyan who serves without recognition. We say thank you. Erokamano.
And so we echo once more:
Farewell to a Hero: Farewell to a Hero.