The fight over a Westlands mansion between the widows of late businessman Jacob Juma has reached new levels of tension. The two widows, Miriam Wairimu and Lydia Tabuke, are locked in a bitter property dispute that has dragged on since Juma’s death in 2016.
At the heart of the conflict is the Westlands property, which has remained mostly unoccupied apart from caretakers.
Recently, Tabuke claimed that her attempt to move into the house was met with hostility. She alleges that her belongings were thrown out and her three workers were arrested during the incident.
“My kids need a roof over their heads, and you are throwing me out?” Tabuke lamented.
She explained that financial struggles forced her to leave her rented apartment and move into the house on the advice of her lawyer while awaiting a court ruling.

Tabuke also said she had no other place to go, as an accident had left her unable to work or pay rent. She accuses Wairimu of harassing her and leaving her stranded.
However, Wairimu denied the allegations and countered that Tabuke had damaged the property.
“I have not thrown anybody out. Lydia damaged the property herself. I even asked her why she would do such a thing when we’re just trying to take care of it,” Wairimu said.
Court records confirm that both Wairimu and Tabuke are legally recognized as Juma’s widows. The case over the Westlands mansion is still pending in court. Wairimu has urged patience as they await the court’s decision.
“As we wait for the conclusion of the succession case, let’s remain calm and allow the court to determine what happens with the property,” she stated.
This is not the first controversy surrounding the mansion. Earlier this year, a third party, Jane Wanja, claimed the property as collateral for an unpaid loan by Juma. However, a court ruling in August dismissed her claims, leaving the widows as the sole contenders.
Despite the ongoing legal battles, Tabuke remains determined to claim the Westlands home for herself and her children.
For now, the fate of the Westlands mansion lies in the hands of the court.
By Vivian K.