NAIROBI, Kenya – Gospel musician Alex Apoko, popularly known as Ringtone, is today expected in court over a multi-million shilling land dispute involving prime property in Karen, Nairobi.
The matter is scheduled for mention and defence hearing before the Milimani Environment and Land Court, with the spotlight on Ringtone’s claim to the parcel identified as Nairobi/Block 99/142.
The civil case was filed in 2023 by Teresiah Adhiambo Odhiambo, who accuses the singer of unlawfully interfering with her land. She alleges that Ringtone, through hired individuals, forcefully entered the property and attempted to take over, despite her holding a valid title deed.
Odhiambo is seeking permanent injunctive orders barring the musician from accessing or dealing with the land in any manner. The court had earlier issued temporary orders halting any further interference with the disputed parcel.
Ringtone, through his lawyers, maintains he is the rightful owner, citing adverse possession as the basis for his claim. He argues that he has lived on the land for more than 20 years, thereby qualifying for legal ownership under Kenyan property laws — a claim that Odhiambo fiercely disputes.
In an earlier session, the court granted Ringtone leave to file additional evidence, including supporting affidavits. Today’s hearing could mark a turning point in determining whether the musician has a legitimate claim or trespassed on Odhiambo’s land.
Linked to Criminal Case
The civil suit is also tied to an ongoing criminal case at the Nairobi Chief Magistrate’s Court, where Ringtone and co-accused Alfred Juma Ayora face charges of conspiracy to defraud Odhiambo of land valued at Sh50 million.
Ringtone was arraigned on May 15, 2025, under a warrant of arrest after skipping multiple court dates. His co-accused, Ayora, had already taken a plea on March 28 and faces an additional charge of giving false information after allegedly swearing a fake affidavit claiming he had lived on the Karen property for two decades.
Ayora pleaded not guilty.
Ringtone’s repeated failure to appear led to another warrant of arrest before he was finally brought to court. He has since denied all allegations and was released on Sh1 million cash bail, alongside Ayora.
