Gospel musician Ringtone, born Alex Apoko, has been released on a KSh 3 million bond—or an alternative cash bail of KSh 1 million—following his arraignment over a multimillion land fraud case. The singer, known for his hit song Tenda Wema, had spent four days in custody before appearing in court on Monday, May 19, 2025. The court also required two contact persons to facilitate his release.
Ringtone is facing a single charge of conspiracy to fraudulently acquire a prime piece of land in the Karen area, valued at approximately KSh 50 million. The contested property, measuring 0.47 hectares and registered as NAIROBI/BLOCK 99/142, is under the name of Teresiah Adhiambo Odhiambo. In his defense, Ringtone claimed he has occupied the land for over 20 years without any dispute and is therefore entitled to ownership through adverse possession.
His co-accused, Alfred Ayora Juma, faces two additional charges: false swearing and perjury. He is accused of knowingly providing false information under oath and filing a misleading affidavit in the Environment and Land Court regarding the same property. The case has been scheduled for hearing on August 6, 2025.
The public has responded with a mix of skepticism and spiritual advice. One user, Geoffrey Muchiri, questioned the validity of Ringtone’s claim, asking, “So bro claimed he has lived on the land for over 20 years? He settled there even before he was born?” Another, Jesset Barasa, wrote, “Just a piece of advice, go back to your spiritual father and humble yourself before God. Hii kiburi itakushusha. Most of these gospel singers forget their source of success.” Bonface Kimanzi commented, “I thought ukiitwa Chairman wa Gospel everything is okay. Fraud cases zinatoka wapi?”
Others expressed concern and compassion. A user identified as Rober Jya said, “Tumuhurumie, yeye ni mtoto yatima na tumuweke kwa maombi,” urging people to be empathetic toward the singer.
The case has drawn significant public interest due to Ringtone’s celebrity status and the serious nature of the allegations against him.
