Vihiga County is in mourning following the sudden death of its County Secretary, Ezekiel Ayiego, who collapsed in his house shortly after returning home from work. Ayiego, a highly respected public servant, died unexpectedly, leaving behind a legacy of service and dedication to both the county and the education sector.
According to reports, Ayiego collapsed at his residence, and despite efforts to provide assistance, he passed away. His death has shocked the county, and a post-mortem is scheduled to determine the exact cause of death. The passing of Ayiego has left the community in a state of deep sadness, with tributes pouring in from various leaders, colleagues, and residents who admired his leadership and commitment.
The Council of Governors (CoG) expressed their heartfelt condolences, with CoG chair Ahmed Abdullahi leading the tribute. In a statement, Abdullahi described Ayiego as a “great administrator, a passionate educator, and a committed public servant who was an agent of change.” He praised Ayiego’s contributions to the County Secretaries Forum, which will continue to be cherished by his colleagues. Abdullahi conveyed his deepest sympathy to Governor Wilbur Ottichilo, Ayiego’s family, and the entire Vihiga County community, offering prayers for strength during this difficult time.
Governor Wilbur Ottichilo, in his message of condolence, reflected on the deep personal and professional loss he experienced. He remembered Ayiego as not only a colleague but also a close friend who was integral to the reforms in the Vihiga County Public Service. “Ayiego was a committed administrator, educator, change advocate, and a dear friend to me and many others. His contributions to our county’s growth and development were immeasurable,” said Ottichilo. The governor highlighted Ayiego’s efficiency and dedication to ensuring that the county’s public service was well-organized and responsive to the needs of its people.
The sudden passing of the county secretary also caught the attention of political leaders beyond Vihiga County. Makadara Member of Parliament George Aladwa, who expressed his shock at the news, mourned the loss of a “dedicated, hardworking, and committed leader.” Aladwa conveyed his condolences to Ayiego’s family and Governor Ottichilo, noting that Vihiga County had lost a capable servant who had worked tirelessly for the community’s welfare.
Ayiego’s legacy extends beyond his work in Vihiga County. Before his appointment as County Secretary, he was a prominent figure in Kenya’s educational sector. Indimuli Kahi, the chairman of the Kenya Secondary Schools Heads Association (KSSHA), praised Ayiego for his distinguished career in education. “He was a renowned teacher of high repute with a rich management history in the teaching fraternity,” Kahi said. Ayiego’s contributions as the Assistant National Organizing Secretary of KESSHA were particularly noteworthy, as he served the organization with commitment and diligence, earning respect from his peers.
Ayiego’s death marks a significant loss not only for Vihiga County but also for the wider educational and public service sectors. His work as an educator, public servant, and administrator left an indelible mark on all who worked with him. Ayiego’s passion for change and his commitment to improving the lives of those around him made him a beloved figure in his community.
As Vihiga County and the broader Kenyan public mourn the untimely passing of Ezekiel Ayiego, his family, friends, and colleagues are left with the task of carrying forward the work he began. His legacy of hard work, dedication, and service to the people of Vihiga will continue to inspire those who knew him and worked alongside him.
