Geoffrey Mosiria, the Chief Officer for Environment in Nairobi County, has found himself at the center of controversy after being accused of extorting upcoming musicians by confiscating their instruments and demanding hefty bribes for their return.
These allegations have sparked outrage, with many calling for his immediate investigation and removal from office.
Several struggling artists have come forward, claiming that county officials operating under Mosiria’s directive have been raiding their performances and seizing their equipment.
The excuse given is that they lack the necessary permits, but instead of following due legal procedures, these officials allegedly offer a way out pay a bribe or lose the instruments permanently.
This practice has devastated many young musicians who depend on live performances to make a living.
One affected artist narrated how his expensive keyboard and speakers were taken during a small performance in Nairobi’s central business district.
When he inquired at City Hall, he was directed to Mosiria’s officers, who allegedly demanded Ksh 50,000 for their return.
Lacking the funds, he was forced to abandon his equipment, effectively ending his ability to perform. His story is just one of many, highlighting a systematic scheme to exploit those who cannot fight back.
Beyond confiscating instruments, there are also allegations that Mosiria’s team selectively enforces laws to target those who refuse to comply with their corrupt demands.
Some musicians claim that competitors who have “connections” within City Hall or who willingly pay kickbacks are allowed to operate without interference.
This has created an unfair playing field, where talent and hard work no longer determine success only bribes do. Mosiria has denied these claims, insisting that his office is simply enforcing Nairobi’s regulations.
He has dismissed the accusations as baseless and politically motivated, challenging anyone with evidence to take it to the authorities.
However, his critics argue that these denials are a common tactic used by corrupt officials to evade accountability.
Pressure is mounting for investigative agencies like the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) and the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) to probe these allegations thoroughly.
Civil rights groups, musicians, and Nairobi residents are demanding transparency and action against officials who use their positions for personal gain.
This is yet another case of Nairobi County officials exploiting ordinary citizens. The fate of upcoming musicians now depends on whether the authorities will take action or if this scandal will be buried like many others before it.
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