Babu Owino Rejects Claims Linking Him to Maverick Aoko’s Statements on Ida Odinga

Embakasi East Member of Parliament Babu Owino has publicly responded to allegations suggesting a fallout between him and Ida Odinga following claims made by blogger Maverick Aoko. The claims gained traction after a cryptic online post, prompting speculation about strained relations between the legislator and the Odinga family. Owino addressed the issue directly through a detailed statement shared on his official Facebook account on Monday, December 15, 2025, clarifying his position and distancing himself from the controversial remarks.

In his post, Babu Owino acknowledged his friendship with Maverick Aoko but strongly rejected suggestions that he influences or directs her online activity. He emphasized that Aoko operates independently and does not speak on his behalf. He made it clear that assumptions linking Aoko’s posts to his personal views were unfounded.

“Maverick Aoko is my friend and my fierce supporter, for which I’m truly grateful and appreciative. Oftentimes, when she posts on X, people are under the impression that I am the one who tells her what to post. Maverick is an independent-minded person,” Babu said.

He went on to firmly dismiss claims that he has ever attacked the Odinga family, stating that his personal relationships with several members of the family remain intact and long-standing. According to Owino, his friendships within the Odinga household make such accusations illogical.

“I do not know her sources and have never told her to attack the Odinga family. Winnie Odinga is my friend, Junior is my friend, and Rosemary is my friend too. How can I insult their only mother?” Babu wrote.

What did Babu Owino say about his relationship with Ida Odinga?

Babu Owino described his relationship with Ida Odinga in personal and respectful terms, portraying it as one built on mutual affection and trust. He stated that Ida Odinga has always treated him like a son and welcomed him warmly whenever he visited her home. His remarks sought to counter the narrative of hostility by highlighting shared moments and personal kindness extended to him by the former Prime Minister’s wife.

“Mama Ida loves me like her own son, welcomes me home, and gives me food whenever I visit her. I can never insult such a mum. She’s been good to me, and I love her,” Babu noted.

His clarification comes at a sensitive time for the Odinga family, following the recent passing of Raila Odinga. The period has drawn national attention, with leaders, supporters, and mourners from across the country paying tribute to the late ODM leader.

What did Ida Odinga tell mourners after Raila Odinga’s death?

Weeks earlier, Ida Odinga addressed mourners at the family’s Opoda Farm home on Friday, November 7, 2025, where she spoke emotionally about the overwhelming support she had received. She expressed gratitude to those who traveled long distances to stand with the family during their time of grief, noting that their presence had given her strength.

“Nimeanza kukaa hapa kwanzia saa tatu ama saa mbili mpaka sasa sijaamka. Kwa hivyo, hiyo nikuonyesha mapenzi ambayo nyinyi mko nayo kwetu, familia ya baba. Nafurahi na kila mtu ambaye amekuja,” Ida said.

She urged mourners not to make it their final visit, explaining that continued companionship would help her cope with the loneliness of being left behind as the family matriarch. Her appeal reflected both vulnerability and appreciation for the deep ties between the Odinga family and their supporters.

“Na leo isikue mara yenu ya mwisho kuja kwangu. Unajua sasa ni mama amebaki, na mama akitembelewa na watoto anaskia vizuri sana. Kwa hivyo msinitupe, msiniwache, mtakua mkinitembelllea nyumbani na naomba mungu awabariki juu najua wengi wenu wanatoka mbali,” she added.

Ida Odinga also noted that many mourners were long-time friends and supporters, particularly from Kibera, where Raila Odinga once served as Member of Parliament. She emphasized that despite his departure from elective politics in the area, the family has remained closely connected to the community.

By Lucky Anyanje