Nairobi County Secretary Godfrey Akumali has joined other leaders in mourning his Vihiga counterpart Ezekiel Ayiego, who collapsed and died in his house on Wednesday.
Akumali described Ayiego as a hardworking, dedicated, and resourceful member of the county secretaries forum who will be missed by many not only in Vihiga but the country at large.
"I take this opportunity to extend my deepest condolences to the family, relatives, friends, and the people of Vihiga for losing a dedicated servant and leader," Akumali said.
Ayiego collapsed in his house and died after returning from work. A post-mortem is set to be conducted on his body to establish the cause of death.
Born on October 20, 1967, in Ingidi village of Lugaga Wamuluma ward in Vihiga constituency, Ayiego served as the principal of Chesamisi High School before joining politics.
The Council of Governors has since sent a message of condolences to Governor Wilbur Ottichilo, family, friends, relatives, and residents of Vihiga county following the death.
“It is with deep sadness we have learnt of the untimely demise of Ezekiel Ayiego, County Secretary and Head of Public Service, Vihiga County. With heavy hearts, we extend our deepest and heartfelt condolences to the family, relatives, friends, and the people of Vihiga,” CoG chairman Ahmed Abdullahi said in a statement.
He said the council will remember Ayiego as a great administrator, a passionate educator, and a committed public servant who was an agent of change.
“His contributions to the County Secretaries Forum will forever be cherished. On behalf of the Council of Governors and the 47 county governments, please accept our earnest thoughts and prayers during this difficult time,” he added.
Ottichilo said Ayiego unexpectedly passed away at his residence.
“He was a committed administrator, educator, change advocate, and a dear friend to me and many others. He served as a highly efficient county secretary in my administration, where we diligently collaborated to reform the Vihiga County Public Service,” he said.