- Uber, Bolt Drivers Announce Three Day Shutdown in Lagos
- Iwindoye said the decision followed prolonged complaints from drivers over economic challenges affecting app based transport workers in the state
- Iwindoye noted that the action is not intended to inconvenience commuters but to seek fair treatment
The Amalgamated Union of App-Based Transporters of Nigeria (AUATON), Lagos State chapter, has announced a three day strike beginning Sunday.
Eko Hot Blog reports on the announcement was made by the union’s Public Relations Officer, Steven Iwindoye, during a news conference in Lagos.
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According to the union, drivers operating on ride hailing platforms have raised concerns over poor working conditions and unsustainable fares, particularly on Bolt.
Iwindoye said the decision followed prolonged complaints from drivers over economic challenges affecting app based transport workers in the state.
He explained that drivers working with platforms such as Uber, Bolt, inDrive and Lagride are struggling with rising operational costs.
According to him, increasing fuel prices, vehicle maintenance costs, inflation and other living expenses have made it difficult for drivers to earn a sustainable income despite working long hours.
He added that the strike is aimed at demanding urgent reforms within the app based transport industry.
During the three day industrial action, drivers across Lagos are expected to log off from all ride hailing platforms operating in the state.
Iwindoye noted that the action is not intended to inconvenience commuters but to seek fair treatment, economic sustainability and safety protections for drivers providing essential transportation services.
The union also presented ten key demands to ride hailing companies and government authorities.
These include an immediate review of fares to reflect current economic realities, reduction of commission percentages charged by ride hailing companies, and the introduction of a regulated minimum base fare to prevent extremely low paying trips.
Other demands include improved rider verification systems, emergency panic buttons, real time response mechanisms to address security threats, and comprehensive accident, health and life insurance coverage for drivers while active on the platforms.
The union said it will review the responses from ride hailing companies and government authorities at the end of the three day shutdown to determine whether the strike will be suspended or extended.
Iwindoye apologised to residents for any inconvenience the action might cause, stressing that the union remains open to dialogue.
He also called on the state government, regulators and ride hailing companies to urgently engage with drivers’ representatives to resolve the issues.
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