The late Senior Assistant Inspector General Lazarus Simiyu OpichoNairobi businesswoman Rose Wanja has paid an emotional tribute to the late Senior Assistant Inspector General Lazarus Simiyu Opicho.
Wanja remembered Opicho as a trusted friend, mentor and influential figure who helped shape her professional journey.
Wanja’s tribute comes ahead of Opicho’s burial at Wehoya Farm in Kitale, Trans Nzoia County, following his death on September 28 while undergoing treatment at Aga Khan Hospital in Nairobi.
In her farewell message, Wanja recalled meeting the veteran police officer at the National Defence University-Kenya, where their acquaintance grew into a close friendship that exposed her to new professional opportunities and interactions with senior government officials and dignitaries.
She credited Opicho with offering guidance that strengthened her understanding of security, leadership and professional conduct.
“He mentored me on security awareness, protocol, professionalism and leadership, while teaching me how to handle difficult situations through calmness, effective communication and understanding people's concerns,” Wanja said.
She described the late officer as a dependable mentor whose advice went beyond professional matters, helping her navigate challenging situations with confidence and composure.
Wanja also shared fond memories of their friendship, recalling how Opicho would frequently call her to help arrange flights to Kitale, a destination he loved visiting.
She said their final conversation revolved around his travel plans to the town, when he sought her assistance in securing a seat on a Skyward Express flight to Kitale.
During the same call, Opicho also shared the location of his new office along Mbagathi Road, a detail that has since taken on a poignant meaning for Wanja.
She said she had no idea that the conversation would be their last.
“General, I will never forget your calls, your laughter, your encouragement and the doors you opened for me,” Wanja said.
She expressed sadness that Opicho had embarked on his final journey home without making the familiar call she had come to associate with his trips to Kitale.
The late Senior Assistant Inspector General Lazarus Simiyu Opicho with Nairobi businesswoman Rose Wanja/HANDOUTWanja extended her condolences to Opicho’s family, friends and colleagues in the National Police Service, describing his death as a profound loss to those who knew and worked with him.
Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja also led the National Police Service in mourning the veteran officer, describing him as a dedicated, honest and exemplary public servant whose leadership would be deeply missed.
At the time of his death, Opicho headed the Security of Government Buildings (SGB) and VIP Protection Unit, a specialised wing under the Administration Police Service responsible for safeguarding critical national infrastructure, key dignitaries and judicial officers.
