Former Ena Coach driver Tom Ondieki is at the center of a protracted compensation dispute with his former employer following a devastating road accident that led to the amputation of his left arm. Ondieki, who gained public attention through a viral TikTok video under the handle @Omonairobi, claims he has been abandoned by Ena Coach, while the company insists it has followed all due procedures and has faced challenges in securing his cooperation.
The accident occurred on February 17, 2025, near Gwoyo on the Nairobi–Busia route. Ondieki was driving at 5 a.m. when his bus crashed. Although all passengers escaped unharmed, Ondieki sustained life-changing injuries, resulting in the amputation of his hand.
“My life changed after the accident,” Ondieki shared in an emotional video, highlighting what he perceives as invalid insurance documents and unsuccessful attempts to engage with the company.
Ena Investments Limited, Ena Coach’s parent company, issued a statement on November 14 defending its handling of the matter. CEO Richard Mogire confirmed that Ondieki, who had been employed for seven months prior to the accident, was insured and that a claim had been filed with the company’s insurance partner shortly after his hospital discharge.
“The firm quickly filed a claim with its insurance partner once he was discharged from the hospital. Ondieki disputed the compensation and requested that all further communications be directed through his lawyer, whose details he provided,” Mogire explained.
The company emphasized that it has engaged the Directorate of Occupational Safety and Health Services (DOSHS) to ensure a legally sound compensation process. DOSHS forms have been prepared and await approval from Ondieki’s attending physician. However, Ena Coach noted that cooperation from Ondieki has been inconsistent, slowing the resolution.
“Our office has maintained regular contact with Ondieki to facilitate the process, but at times, cooperation from him has been challenging,” Mogire added.
Ena Coach stressed its commitment to employee welfare, citing previous cases where compensation was processed without dispute.
“We are committed to ensuring that Ondieki receives all the justice and support he deserves,” Mogire affirmed, urging him to cooperate with the company and relevant authorities to resolve the matter fairly.
Legal experts note that disputes of this nature often become protracted, requiring meticulous documentation and strict adherence to legal frameworks.
Ondieki’s case shows the critical need for clear communication and transparency between employers, insurers, and injured workers to ensure timely and fair compensation.
