Kisumu-based preacher Pastor Samo has ignited a wave of outrage online after making sensational claims about the late Raila Odinga, the longtime opposition leader who recently passed away.
In a viral video, Samo alleges that Raila was “taken straight to hell” after his death, claiming the politician was initiated into the Freemasons back in 1996.
“When Raila died, he was taken straight to hell. The reason is that in 1996 he was initiated into the Freemasons. So he went directly,” the pastor declared.
He went on to offer even more dramatic assertions, saying that on the “third day of judgment,” an angel reportedly visited Raila’s grave and was surprised to find the funeral still underway — suggesting, in his view, that Raila’s spiritual fate had already been sealed.
According to Samo, the outpouring of love and testimonies from Raila’s supporters somehow influenced heavenly intervention. He claims Raila was then removed from hell but not admitted into heaven.
“So Raila was removed from hell, but he’s not in Heaven. He was only removed because there is a special case pending over him,” he alleged.
The pastor further argued that Raila never publicly declared Jesus Christ as his personal saviour — something he insists could ultimately determine his final fate.
“He never confessed Jesus as his saviour, only his religion. Be careful with religion. Religion isn’t salvation. Your church isn’t your salvation,” Samo warned.
He claimed the positive testimonies from Kenyans — describing Raila as generous, humble, and charitable — played a role in prompting angelic intervention.
“Thousands are testifying before God … forgiving, supporting. And Raila was kind, helping people chini ya maji,” he said. Samo also added that Raila had “bloodless hands,” insisting he never harmed anyone.
“I’m telling you the truth as a prophet … 40 years as a prophet … I have no reason to lie,” he maintained.
Kenyans React With Skepticism
Despite the bold statements, mainstream media has not covered the pastor’s exact claims in detail. Online, however, Kenyans have dismissed the prophecy as sensational and inappropriate — especially so soon after Raila’s death.
On Reddit, many users questioned the trend of pastors inserting themselves into political conversations:
“I’m curious how different generations are reacting … our generation seems more sarcastic, detached,” one user wrote.
Another user labelled the prophecy “rage bait,” commenting:
“That old Giza is mentioned … it’s a calamity. I wonder what they’ll do when he finally passes on.”
With the nation still mourning, many see Samo’s claims as inflammatory and potentially divisive, rather than a meaningful spiritual message.