The Amalgamated Union of App-Based Transporters of Nigeria (AUATON), Lagos State chapter, has announced a three-day strike by ride-hailing drivers beginning on Sunday, as operators protest what they describe as poor working conditions and unsustainable fares on ride-hailing platforms.
Speaking at a news conference in Lagos on Sunday, the union’s Public Relations Officer, Mr. Steven Iwindoye, said the strike followed months of complaints from drivers who argue that rising operational costs and low fares have made it increasingly difficult to earn a living.
Iwindoye explained that during the strike, drivers across the state would log off from platforms such as Uber, Bolt, inDrive and Lagride.
He said the decision to embark on the strike came after prolonged concerns about the economic challenges confronting app-based transport workers in Lagos.
“Drivers operating on platforms such as Uber, Bolt, inDrive and Lagride face rising operational costs, including high fuel prices, vehicle maintenance, inflation and daily living expenses,” he said.
He added that the fare structures and policies of the ride-hailing companies had not been adjusted to reflect current economic realities.
“Unfortunately, fare structures and policies of these companies have not been adjusted to reflect these economic realities. Thousands of drivers now struggle to earn a sustainable income despite working long hours,” Iwindoye said.
According to him, the strike is aimed at pushing for urgent reforms in the app-based transport sector and is not intended to punish commuters.
“The action is meant to demand fair treatment, economic sustainability and safety protections for drivers who provide essential transportation services,” he said.
The union spokesperson said AUATON had already presented 10 key demands to ride-hailing companies and relevant government authorities.
He said the demands include an immediate review of fares to reflect the current cost of fuel, vehicle maintenance and inflation, as well as a reduction in the commission charged by ride-hailing companies to help drivers earn a sustainable income.
Other demands include the introduction of a regulated minimum base fare to prevent extremely low-paying trips, improved rider verification systems and the installation of functional emergency panic buttons.
Iwindoye also called for rapid, real-time response mechanisms to protect drivers from security threats, as well as comprehensive accident, health and life insurance coverage for drivers while operating on the platforms.
He said the union would assess responses from ride-hailing companies and government authorities after the three-day shutdown.
“After the strike, we will review the responses we receive. That will determine whether the strike will be suspended or extended until further notice,” he said.
Iwindoye apologised to Lagos residents for any inconvenience the strike might cause and said the union remains open to dialogue.
He also urged the Lagos State Government, regulatory agencies and the management of ride-hailing companies to urgently engage with driver representatives to resolve the issues.
