Gospel Singer Ringtone Remanded Over Sh50 Million Land Fraud Case

Popular Kenyan gospel artist Alex Nyanchonga Apoko, widely known as Ringtone, has been remanded at Industrial Area Prison after a Nairobi court denied him bail over his alleged involvement in a Sh50 million land fraud case.

Ringtone was arraigned on Thursday, May 15, 2025, at the Milimani Law Courts, where he appeared before Senior Principal Magistrate Dolphina Alego. He was charged alongside Alfred Juma Ayora, his co-accused in the case.

Alleged Fraud Involving Prime Land in Karen

According to the prosecution, the two allegedly conspired to fraudulently acquire a 0.1908-hectare parcel of land located in the upscale Karen suburb from Nairobi businesswoman Teresia Adhiambo Odhiambo.

The charge sheet states that the alleged conspiracy took place on February 28, 2023, with the suspects attempting to claim ownership through adverse possession—a legal doctrine that allows one to claim land ownership after long-term, uncontested occupation.

However, prosecutors argue the claim was entirely fabricated. In particular, Ayora is accused of swearing a false affidavit, stating he had lived on the land for over 20 years—an assertion investigators say is verifiably false.

Missed Court Dates and Arrest Warrant

Ringtone’s legal woes deepened after he repeatedly failed to appear in court, citing illness. Despite presenting medical documents to justify his absence, Magistrate Alego questioned their authenticity, ultimately issuing an arrest warrant on May 7, 2025.

His arrest followed shortly after, leading to his first court appearance a week later. Magistrate Alego ordered that both Ringtone and Ayora remain in custody until Monday, May 19, when a pre-bail report will be reviewed to determine if they qualify for release.

Ongoing Land Fraud Crisis in Nairobi

The case underscores growing concern over a rise in land fraud cases in Nairobi and its surroundings, where both local and foreign investors have suffered significant losses in dubious real estate dealings.

Ringtone’s legal troubles add to a string of controversies that have trailed the outspoken musician over the years. From public feuds with fellow artists to lavish lifestyle displays, he has remained a polarizing figure in the entertainment scene.

The unfolding legal battle now places Ringtone at the center of a broader national conversation about land rights, real estate scams, and the urgent need for reform and tighter safeguards in Kenya’s property market.