Ride-hailing drivers in Lagos declare three-day strike over low fares
The Amalgamated Union of App-Based Transporters of Nigeria, AUATON, Lagos State chapter, has declared a three-day strike beginning on Sunday over concerns about working conditions and earnings in the app-based transport sector.
The announcement was made by the union’s Public Relations Officer, Steven Iwindoye, during a press briefing in Lagos on Sunday.
According to the union, drivers operating on ride-hailing platforms across the state are grappling with what it described as worsening economic realities, including rising fuel costs, vehicle maintenance expenses, inflation and other daily operational challenges.
Iwindoye said drivers using platforms such as Uber, Bolt, inDrive and Lagride have repeatedly complained that fare structures and operational policies have not been adjusted to reflect the current economic conditions.
“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.
“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,” he said.
The union explained that the strike was necessary to push for urgent reforms within the industry and to address the challenges affecting app-based transport workers.
During the three-day industrial action, drivers across Lagos are expected to log off from all ride-hailing platforms, effectively suspending services throughout the period.
Iwindoye clarified that the action was not aimed at inconveniencing commuters but rather to demand fair treatment, improved economic conditions and enhanced safety measures for drivers who provide essential transportation services.
He added that the union had submitted a list of 10 demands to ride-hailing companies and relevant authorities.
Among the demands are an immediate review of fare structures to reflect the rising costs of fuel, vehicle maintenance and inflation, as well as a reduction in commission rates charged by ride-hailing companies to enable drivers earn sustainable incomes.
Other demands include the introduction of a regulated minimum base fare to prevent extremely low-paying trips, improved rider verification systems, and the deployment of functional emergency panic buttons alongside rapid real-time response mechanisms to address security threats faced by drivers.
The union also called for comprehensive accident, health and life insurance coverage for drivers while they are active on ride-hailing platforms.
Iwindoye stated that at the end of the three-day shutdown, the union would assess responses from both the ride-hailing companies and government authorities to determine whether the strike would be suspended or extended.
He apologised to Lagos residents for any inconvenience the action might cause, noting that the union remains open to dialogue.
The spokesperson also urged the Lagos State Government, regulatory agencies and the management of ride-hailing companies to engage with driver representatives to address the issues raised.
