The decorated military officer, who died in a tragic helicopter crash in Elgeyo Marakwet in April 2024, had written the document more than a decade earlier, setting clear instructions on how his wealth should be divided.
The will, witnessed by two senior officers in 2012, revealed that Ogolla wanted his estate to be shared strictly among his immediate family members—his widow, Aileen Ogolla, and their two children, Lorna Achieng and Joel Rabuku. In a move that surprised many, he completely excluded his extended relatives.
“To all my relatives—good luck,” the General reportedly wrote, making it clear that only his wife and children would inherit his property.
According to the instructions, Aileen was to receive half of his entire estate. The remaining 50 percent would be equally shared between Lorna and Joel.
His wife was also allocated an apartment on Hatheru Road in Nairobi. If she was unable to occupy it, then ownership would pass to the two children.
For Lorna, Ogolla left a property near Pangani Shopping Centre in Nairobi, all his shares at NIC Securities, and a Bible that once belonged to her paternal grandmother.
Joel was given property in Siaya, another house near Pangani, and all of his father’s personal belongings and artefacts. Anything not specifically mentioned in the will would be shared equally between the two siblings.
Perhaps the most unusual instruction in the will was about Ogolla’s clothing. He directed that every single piece of his personal attire be destroyed.
“I direct that all my clothing be disposed of by burning,” the will stated.
This request has puzzled many Kenyans, with some interpreting it as a symbolic act while others see it as a personal preference to avoid disputes or misuse of his possessions.
General Ogolla also left instructions about his funeral. He requested to be buried within 72 hours of his death, and without a coffin.
This reflected his simple approach to life, despite being one of the highest-ranking officers in the Kenya Defence Forces.
At the time of his death, Ogolla’s estate was valued at around KSh 150 million. His wealth included investments in real estate, shares in companies and saccos, three vehicles, and six parcels of land spread across Siaya, Central Alego, and East Alego.
He also maintained nine bank accounts, evidence of years of disciplined savings and planning.
The will has sparked conversations on inheritance in Kenya. Some praised Ogolla for being clear and firm about his wishes, while others criticized him for sidelining relatives who might have expected support.
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