Eng. Julius Mak Oderoh: KeNHA Nyanza Director Under Fire Over Corruption, Intimidation, and Delayed Projects

The Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA), Nyanza Regional Office, is facing intense scrutiny following serious allegations against its regional director, Eng. Julius Mak Oderoh.

Reports from inside the office claim widespread corruption, intimidation of staff, and mismanagement that have slowed critical infrastructure projects and lowered employee morale.

Sources describe a toxic work environment where fear and favoritism dominate operations.

Employees say Eng. Mak Oderoh has allegedly turned the regional office into a personal command center where all decisions pass through his desk, stalling routine administrative and financial processes for days or even weeks.

“Nothing moves unless he approves it personally. Even small decisions are delayed,” said one senior officer who requested anonymity. “

Eng. Julius Mak Oderoh, KeNHA Nyanza Regional Director, faces allegations of corruption, intimidation, and mismanagement that have slowed key infrastructure projects.

Junior Staff Acting While Deputy Ignored

Internal sources reveal that during his absences, Eng. Oderoh frequently bypasses his officially appointed deputy.

Instead, he assigns a junior officer to act on his behalf, a move widely criticized as a deliberate display of authority and a breach of civil service protocol.

This practice has reportedly created confusion, undermined the office hierarchy, and weakened the confidence of senior staff who feel their expertise is being ignored.

Culture of Intimidation and Low Morale

Staff members report an atmosphere of fear where questioning authority can lead to transfers, demotions, or other forms of reprisal.

The hostile environment has reportedly caused low morale and stalled service delivery, leaving important road maintenance and infrastructure projects across Nyanza counties behind schedule.

Several officers are said to have requested transfers out of the region due to persistent harassment and pressure to comply with opaque directives.

Allegations of Protection and Kickbacks

Insiders claim that Eng. Oderoh enjoys protection from Eng. Fukwo at KeNHA headquarters, allegedly because he shares proceeds from inflated contracts and kickbacks from regional contractors.

This protection, sources say, has allowed him to operate with near impunity and disregard standard oversight mechanisms.

“He operates as if nothing can happen to him because the money reaches the top,” one insider said.

This arrangement has reportedly emboldened the director to continue questionable practices while maintaining tight control over financial approvals and project management.

Delayed Projects and Public Impact

The alleged mismanagement has had real consequences for public service and infrastructure.

Key road maintenance projects and bridge constructions across Kisumu, Siaya, Homa Bay, and Migori counties are reportedly delayed.

Contractors cite bureaucratic bottlenecks, interference, and intimidation as the main reasons for slow project progress.

Residents and local leaders have expressed concern that continued delays could undermine regional connectivity and economic growth.

Calls for EACC and KeNHA Board Intervention

Civil society and accountability groups are urging the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) and the KeNHA Board to initiate a full financial and administrative audit of the Nyanza regional office.

“The office is paralyzed by corruption and fear. An independent investigation is the only way to restore accountability,” said a transport sector activist.

Observers emphasize that without decisive action, the office risks further delays in infrastructure delivery and erosion of public trust in KeNHA.

Calls are growing for the EACC and KeNHA Board to investigate alleged corruption and intimidation at the Nyanza regional office.

Erosion of Trust and Institutional Integrity

KeNHA, operating under the Ministry of Roads and Transport, is responsible for managing and maintaining Kenya’s national trunk road network.

The alleged corruption and intimidation in the Nyanza office threaten not only staff morale but also national infrastructure development.

Analysts warn that unchecked practices at regional levels could set dangerous precedents, allowing rogue officials to exploit public resources while enjoying protection from senior management.

What Comes Next

As pressure mounts, attention is now focused on whether the KeNHA Board and EACC will act swiftly to restore integrity, transparency, and accountability in the Nyanza regional office.

Staff, contractors, and residents alike are watching closely, hoping that public resources and critical projects are not further compromised.

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