Riverside attack: Kenyans on Twitter mourn death of James ‘Cobra’ [Photos]

James Oduor ‘Cobra’ [Courtesy] 

Kenyan football fanatics this morning have been left stunned by the death of James Oduor ‘Cobra’ following yesterday’s terror attack at Dusit Hotel complex in Westlands, Nairobi.

Cobra, who worked at LG offices was among the first people to send out distress calls on his Twitter handle immediately the attack began.

“Waaaah. What's happening at 14 Riverside fam? Any news from out there?” – was one of his posts seen yesterday.

As the attacks went on, Cobra kept tweeting, trying to inform Kenyans of what was going on.

“What's happening at 14 Riverside man. We're trapped in our buildings. Gunshots and non-stop explosions” – another tweet read.

Cobra was among the first people to send out distress calls on his Twitter handle immediately the attack began [Courtesy] 

Cobra is said to have succumbed to gunshot wounds.

He ran a video blog (Wadau Tv) which covered football stories from the grassroots level.

He was supposed to celebrate his birthday today.

Those who knew Cobra personally took to social media to express their grief, showering him with messages of peace. Here are a couple of the reactions.

“Fare thee well my friend. Your good spirit will live on in football. You did your part. We shall do ours and remember you.” – FKF boss Nick Mwendwa

He was supposed to celebrate his birthday today [Courtesy]

“It is with a heavy heart that we must share the sad news of the passing of a great man James Oduor Cobra aka ODu... You were and are still an inspiration to all, with a heart that radiated love and warmth through all our lives. You will truly be missed and forever remembered.” – Sony Sugar

“James Oduor Cobra I know you had a dream to transform Kenyan football in one way or another. Wadau TV was one of the many ways and I always supported you when you were making the baby steps. “ – Samuel Gacharia

“Rest In Peace James Oduor Cobra 'ule kijana wa Kariokor' let death not be proud!” – Kenn Okaka

“Vibrant; energetic; spirited James Oduor Cobra was so full of life Now you're gone RIP Bro. Terrorism has no Nationality or Religion why kill an Innocent soul?.” – Robert Okatch.

James' tweets [Courtesy]

His employer LG Electronics also released a statement on James Odu Cobra's death that said: "Following the tragic attack at the 14 Riverside office park, it is with great sadness that we inform you of the passing of James Radido – lovingly known as Odu Cobra amongst his family, friends and colleagues at LG.  On behalf of the LG family, we extend our deepest condolences to his loved ones and all who knew him.

Over the last four years, James has had valuable impact among his colleagues at LG. Outside work, his great passion for Kenyan football saw him start the “Wadau TV”- an online show for football fans. During this difficult time, we extend all our support to his family as we mourn the loss of not just an incredible employee, but a truly inspiring and genuine human being.

LG is in contact with his immediate family and we will offer our support during this difficult time".

Al Shabaab militants descended on the hotel complex in Westlands area on Tuesday in a raid that reminded Kenyans of the September 21, 2013 Westgate Mall attack.

Security agencies were praised for their quick and coordinated response to save those affected.

Emergency service vehicles snaked their way into the area, with Kenya Red Cross offering on-site and required medical attention.

The victims, who so far authorities have said total 174, were rescued and shipped to different hospitals. 14 have been confirmed dead.