FKF president Hussein Mohammed (right) with Chris Omollo in hospital on April 29, 2025/HANDOUT
The Football Kenya Federation (FKF) has publicly apologised and strongly condemned the assault of Nation photojournalist Chris Omollo during the FKF Premier League clash between Gor Mahia and Mara Sugar on Sunday, April 27, 2025, at Dandora Stadium.
In a statement issued Monday evening, FKF expressed deep regret over the incident, pledging to take decisive action to protect journalists and fans in Kenyan stadiums.
“We strongly condemn the violence directed at Mr. Omollo, as well as any aggression towards fans and other journalists,” the Federation stated.
“Such actions are unacceptable and have no place in Kenyan football. The media and fans are integral to the football ecosystem, and their safety is a top priority.”
Omollo was reportedly attacked by stadium security personnel while entering the venue through a designated entrance for journalists.
Witnesses said that media workers had been instructed to avoid the congested main gate, yet Omollo was still assaulted as he made his way toward the pitch.
The attack left him unconscious, broke his spectacles, and led to his hospitalisation. He had previously undergone head surgery, raising further alarm about the severity of the incident.
FKF President Hussein Mohammed personally visited Omollo in the hospital, offering support and wishing him a speedy recovery.
The Federation said it is working closely with the National Police Service (NPS), Gor Mahia, Mara Sugar, and Dandora Stadium management to investigate the incident and ensure those responsible are held accountable.
The attack sparked outrage from the Sports Journalists Association of Kenya (SJAK), which threatened to boycott FKF Premier League matches unless those behind the assault were brought to justice and proper safety guarantees were put in place.
In response, FKF promised a full review of its security protocols and committed to strengthening protections for media personnel and fans across all football venues in the country.
“We are committed to working with SJAK and other stakeholders to implement robust measures that prioritise journalist safety and uphold press freedom,”
The statement continued. “We welcome open dialogue to ensure these measures meet the needs of all journalists.”
Meanwhile, NPS spokesperson Muchiri Nyaga confirmed that Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja had received a formal complaint from SJAK President James Waindi.
Nyaga called the incident “regrettable” and assured the public that disciplinary action would be taken against any officers found to have acted outside the law.
The incident comes just three months before Kenya co-hosts the 2025 African Nations Championship (CHAN) alongside Uganda and Tanzania.
More than 500 international sports journalists are expected to cover the tournament, heightening pressure on authorities to ensure stadium safety and press freedom.