Former NTV Journalist Eunice Omollo Faces Eviction, Pleads for Help

Former NTV reporter Eunice Omollo has taken a courageous step in shedding light on her long-standing battle with bipolar disorder.

Through a heart-wrenching video shared on social media, the award-winning journalist has appealed to Kenyans for support, revealing the devastating impact this mental health condition has had on her life. Omollo's journey with bipolar disorder spans over 19 years. The debilitating effects of the disorder have led to the loss of custody of her son, a deeply painful reality, and the looming threat of losing her home. Without access to the necessary medication which remains financially out of reach, Omollo has found herself unable to function effectively.

In a desperate plea for help, the former reporter tearfully describes having gone days without sleep due to the depths of her depressive state. Her appeal is not only a cry for assistance in obtaining the vital medication she needs but also a call for employment opportunities that could provide her with much-needed stability. Before her health declined, Omollo was celebrated for her exceptional journalism, particularly her coverage of health and science issues. During the pandemic, her reporting shed light on the pressing mental health challenges faced by many, even prompting her to contemplate taking her own life at one point.

Her courage in sharing her struggles has undoubtedly resonated with countless individuals facing similar battles. In response to Omollo's plea, Kenyans are encouraged to reach out to the Kenya Red Cross toll-free hotline (1199) for support and guidance during difficult times. Meanwhile, former Citizen reporter Kimani Mbugua's father has revealed that Mbugua's mental health declined following a party where his drink is suspected to have been spiked. In an interview, Mbugua's father reveals that his daughter discovered photos and videos on Mbugua's phone depicting him intoxicated and falling at the party, while also being physically assaulted by women. The presence of a white substance in Mbugua's drink at the time further fueled suspicions of drugging.

The party transpired on February 20th, the day after Mbugua's birthday. While toxicology tests were conducted at the hospital, the phone containing potential video evidence of the incident was unfortunately lost. After Mbugua regained sobriety, his father inquired about his smoking habit. This marked the first time the father had ever witnessed his son smoking openly. The father believes his son's alleged drugging at the party may have exacerbated or triggered his own substance use. This is further supported by Mbugua's reported hospitalization, where he was allegedly drugged a second time while recovering.