What happened to Ouma Neko has raised serious questions about how powerful banks treat ordinary Kenyans, especially when large amounts of money are involved. His experience with I&M Bank has left many people uneasy, not because of rumours, but because of the silence, confusion, and fear that followed a simple transaction that should never have turned into a crisis.
Ouma Neko shared that his problems began after he withdrew two million shillings from his business account. At the time, the account reportedly had close to five million shillings.
This was during the December season, a time when many people need money for school fees, family needs, and business obligations.
Instead of being allowed to continue using his account, he says it was suddenly frozen. No clear explanation was given at first, only demands for proof of where the money came from. He complied fully and even allowed the bank to verify the source directly. Despite this, the delays continued, and he was pushed from one office to another without answers.
What makes this matter disturbing is what followed. After involving his lawyer, Ouma Neko claims he was contacted by an unknown individual and asked to attend a meeting.
The affected I&M Bank customer Ouma Neko. Photo Courtesy/X
During that meeting, he alleges he was told that to regain access to his money, he would have to give up 30 percent of it. That is not a small amount. To many Kenyans, this sounds less like a banking process and more like intimidation. Even though the account was later reopened, the damage had already been done. Trust had been broken.
This issue became even louder after George Njoroge spoke out. He questioned why I&M Bank handled the situation the way it did. He pointed out that if the bank truly suspected illegal activity, the right step would have been to involve authorities such as regulators, not to go quiet or issue unclear responses. Instead, the bank released a short statement saying it does not charge to release funds, without directly addressing the serious claims raised. To George, this silence spoke volumes.
George Njoroge also raised uncomfortable questions about bias. He noted that Ouma Neko is a Black Kenyan and suggested that assumptions may have been made about his ability to legitimately hold large sums of money.
George Njoroge. Photo Courtesy: X
This is a painful issue, but one many Kenyans quietly relate to. Banks are meant to protect customers, not judge them. When financial institutions appear to treat some clients with suspicion while protecting others, public trust collapses.
I&M Bank holds people’s hard-earned money. That comes with responsibility, transparency, and respect. When a customer feels cornered, confused, or pressured, something is deeply wrong. Banking should not feel like a threat. It should feel safe, predictable, and fair.
This situation also reflects a wider fear among Kenyans. Many worry that when problems arise, the system favours institutions over individuals. People save for years, sacrifice daily, and trust banks with their livelihoods. When that trust is shaken, it affects more than one person. It creates fear across society.
Ouma Neko’s experience, amplified by George Njoroge’s voice, has forced an uncomfortable conversation. It is not about social media noise. It is about accountability. Kenyans deserve clear answers, fair treatment, and respect from institutions that profit from their trust.
Until I&M Bank addresses these concerns openly and honestly, the doubts will remain, and the damage to public confidence will continue to grow.
