The Odinga family is once again grieving following the death of Job Odima Atinga, a retired senior National Intelligence Service (NIS) officer and cousin of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.
Atinga, who devoted decades of his life to Kenya’s security and intelligence service, is being remembered as a disciplined, humble, and patriotic public servant whose quiet dedication left a lasting impact on the country.
News of his passing was shared by Raila Odinga’s sister, Ruth Odinga, who travelled to the family’s home in Alego Kakan, Siaya County, to console relatives and stand with them during their time of sorrow.
In an emotional message released on Friday, July 31, Ruth paid glowing tribute to her late cousin, describing him as a man whose life was defined by integrity, courage, and selfless service to the nation.
“This evening, I came to Alego Kakan to sit with the family of my late cousin, Mr. Job Odima Atinga, as we mourn his untimely passing,” she said.
According to Ruth, Atinga built an exemplary career in the National Intelligence Service before concluding his years of public service at the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) Nyanza Regional Office. Throughout his career, he earned the respect of colleagues for his professionalism, commitment, and unwavering dedication to safeguarding Kenya’s peace and security.
“Job served this country with distinction as a senior officer in the NIS, and his final posting at the DCI Nyanza Regional Office demonstrated a life dedicated to the peace and security of our nation,” Ruth said.
“His was a career built on integrity, courage, and quiet, selfless service to Kenya.”
Beyond his professional achievements, Atinga is remembered by family members as a loving husband, father, and relative whose wisdom, humility, and calm nature touched the lives of many.
Ruth also extended heartfelt condolences to Atinga’s widow, Syprose Odupe Atinga, and their children, assuring them that the entire Odinga family would remain by their side as they navigate the difficult days ahead.
“To my sister-in-law, Syprose Odupe Atinga, and to Job’s children, our family grieves with you. We will continue to walk with you through this difficult season,” she said.
His passing has brought renewed sorrow to the extended Odinga family, which has experienced other painful bereavements in recent years. Friends, relatives, colleagues, and leaders from different parts of the country have continued to send messages of comfort while celebrating Atinga’s remarkable contribution to Kenya’s security sector.
Many who worked alongside him describe him as a quiet but highly effective officer who served without seeking recognition, choosing instead to let his dedication and professionalism speak for themselves.
As the family prepares to lay him to rest, Job Odima Atinga will be remembered not only as a devoted family man but also as a loyal public servant whose decades of faithful service helped strengthen Kenya’s security institutions. His legacy of integrity, patriotism, and humble leadership will continue to inspire those who follow in his footsteps.
