NAIROBI, Kenya – Embakasi East MP Babu Owino has spoken out on his relationship with controversial blogger Maverick Aoko, describing her as a “fierce supporter” while firmly distancing himself from her recent online attacks on the Odinga family.
In a statement shared on social media, the lawmaker said that although he is friends with Aoko, she operates independently and does not act on his instructions, dismissing claims that he influences her posts.
“Maverick Aoko is my friend and my fierce supporter, of which I’m truly grateful and appreciative,” Owino said. “However, people often assume that when she posts on X, I am the one telling her what to post. Maverick is an independent-minded person.”
Owino categorically denied having any role in or knowledge of content attributed to Aoko that has targeted members of the Odinga family, insisting that he neither knows her sources nor condones personal attacks.
“I do not know her sources and I have never told her to attack the Odinga family,” he said.
The ODM legislator emphasised his close personal ties with the family of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, arguing that it would be illogical and deeply disrespectful for him to be linked to insults against people he considers close friends.
“Winnie Odinga is my friend, Junior is my friend, and Rosemary is my friend too,” Owino said. “How can I insult their only mother?”
He went on to describe Mama Ida Odinga as a maternal figure who has treated him with kindness over the years, saying he could never disrespect her.
“Mama Ida loves me like her own son, welcomes me home and gives me food whenever I visit. I can never insult such a mum. She’s been good to me, and I love her,” he said.
Owino’s remarks appear aimed at containing political fallout while reaffirming his loyalty to the Odinga family and the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), with which he has long been associated.
Aoko has consistently expressed admiration for Owino and has publicly backed his bid to run for Nairobi governor in the 2027 general election.
