App-based Transporters Begin 3-Day Mega Shutdown
By NAN
The Amalgamated Union of App-Based Transporters of Nigeria (AUATON), Lagos State chapter, has informed the general public of its decision to begin a three days mega strike, beginning from this Sunday.
Mr Steven Iwindoye, its Public Relations Officer, made this announcement at a media briefing in Lagos on Sunday.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) recalls that app-based drivers in Lagos have recently raised concerns over what they describe as poor working conditions and unsustainable fares on the Bolt ride-hailing platform.
Iwindoye said the decision came after prolonged complaints and unresolved concerns regarding the harsh economic realities facing app-based transport workers across the state.
"Drivers operating on platforms such as Uber, Bolt, inDrive, and Lagride continue to face rising operational costs, including the high price of fuel, vehicle maintenance, inflation, and daily living expenses.
"Unfortunately, the fare structures and policies of these companies have not been adjusted to reflect these economic realities.
"As a result, thousands of drivers now struggle to survive despite working extremely long hours on the platforms."
Iwindoye said the union therefore considered this warming strike as a necessary step to demand urgent reforms within the app-based transport industry.
He said during the strike drivers across the state would log off from all ride-hailing platforms, including Uber, Bolt, inDrive, and Lagride.
However, the official noted that the public must understand that app-based drivers were facing severe economic hardship despite providing an essential transportation service.
He explained that this action was not intended to punish commuters but to demand fair treatment, economic sustainability, and safety protections for the drivers who power the ride-hailing industry.
The official said the union was presenting the following 10 critical demands to ride-hailing companies and relevant government authorities.
Iwindoye said the union demanded immediate fare review
ride fares should be adjusted to reflect the current cost of fuel, vehicle maintenance, and inflation in Nigeria.
He noted that the ride-hailing companies must reduce their commission percentages to allow drivers earn sustainable income.
According to him, a regulated minimum base fare should be introduced to prevent extremely low-paying trips that undermine drivers’ livelihood.
Iwindoye said the union also want improved rider verification systems, functional emergency panic buttons, and rapid real-time response mechanisms must be implemented to protect drivers from security threats.
He said drivers should be provided with comprehensive accident, health, and life insurance coverage while active on ride-hailing platforms, among others.
The official said at the end of the three-day shutdown, the union world review the responses from the ride-hailing companies and the government.
He said what happens next would determine whether the strike would be suspended or extended until further notice.
Iwindoye apologised to residents for any inconvenience this action may cause, saying that the union remains open to dialogue.
He called on the state vovernment, regulatory agencies, and the management of the ride-hailing companies to urgently engage with driver representatives to resolve these issues.
(NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
Comments
Post a Comment