The late Ezekiel Otuoma with his wife Racheal
The late Kenyan footballer Ezekiel Otuoma’s former manager, Denis Mugendi, has shed light on the KSh 3.5 million budget allocated for his burial.

Speaking in an interview with Jalang’o TV, Mugendi, a member of the burial committee, explained that the budget reflects the family’s wishes to give Otuoma a dignified send-off.

“The budget includes the family’s suggestions. Whether it’s airlifting Otuoma’s body, catering, or dome tents, we must account for everything,” Mugendi stated.

Otuoma’s body is currently at Montezuma Funeral Home, and costs related to storage, logistics, and other expenses have been factored into the budget.

Mugendi clarified that his role is to contribute and rally others to do the same, leaving the rest to the family.

“My role is to send my contribution, whether KSh 100 or KSh 200, and encourage others to do the same. The family wants to give Otuoma a satisfactory send-off, and we hope to meet the budget through contributions and prayers,” he added.

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Denis Mugendi

Mixed Reactions from Netizens

The public has reacted with a mix of empathy and criticism. Many have expressed support for the family’s efforts, while others have questioned the high burial budget.

Read some of those reactions below:

@catengambisbereanadventure2628 It is very sad how unfeeling people can be. There is a spiritual awakening that this sad event has brought. God has need for lives to be saved. Let's pray for Rachel and her counseling as a caregiver after the funeral.

@philolak5992 Omosh has talked soberly as a true friend. Most guys throwing insults and accusations, 99% didn't interact with Otuoma in person, don't know them in person, have never contributed towards his sickness. Watu wamind tu bizness yao. RIP Pukulu

@lucykiranga501 mwenye hakusaidia Otuoma when on need now ziiii!!!!!!!

@felistasgitau-nb4zg Personally ziko Tiktok but I am shocked by the behaviour of the tiktokers. It's quite disturbing to see people discussing the affairs of the deceased this way. Ata kama pesa itabaki, why should it bother anyone. This should be left to the family. Let's grow up please.

@catengambisbereanadventure2628 Watch out for the sin of injustice to the widow. This is major but God will envelop Rachael on His mercies and care. Gen 2:24-25 talks of a man and his cutting off from the umbilical cord of family of origin to the new life with his wife. Let's pray for Rachel ??

@hellenwanyaga This man is wise

@Kariminjagi07 Bro tulikuwa kwa hio live there's a lady who said "no social media things and that's when Collo left... just to clarify... hapo Pengine PA someone said ati he will die... haikuwa poa btw... I love it when they took away your jersey ??? more hugs to Rachael.


Emotional Reunion Between Families

As plans for the funeral unfold, Otuoma’s passing has brought his widow, Racheal, and her in-laws together in a fascinating reunion.

In a video shared on Obinna TV, Racheal and her mother were seen visiting her late husband’s family in Mbotela after years of strained relations.

Over shared tears and conversations, the families began planning Otuoma’s send-off.

Despite the sorrow, Racheal was seen exchanging light-hearted remarks with Ezekiel’s sister, whose resemblance to the late footballer was uncanny.

Otuoma’s death has highlighted the rocky relationship between Racheal and her in-laws. Before his passing, Racheal often clashed with his family, claiming that had neglected him during his illness.

In April 2024, she took to TikTok to express frustration over their alleged lack of support, sharing that she had cared for her husband tirelessly without acknowledgment.