Drivers working for ride-hailing companies in Lagos under the Amalgamated Union of App-Based Transporters of Nigeria (AUATON) have announced a three-day strike starting this Sunday.
The union made the announcement at a press briefing in Lagos, led by its Public Relations Officer, Mr Steven Iwindoye.
Iwindoye said the strike comes after months of unresolved complaints from drivers about poor working conditions and shrinking earnings on digital ride-hailing platforms.
Drivers linked with companies like Uber, Bolt, inDrive, and Lagride have often raised concerns over what they call unfavourable fare structures, with Bolt cited as a major issue.
He explained that rising costs of living and operating vehicles are making it harder for drivers to survive financially.
“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 said the strike aims to push for urgent reforms in the ride-hailing industry.
During the protest, drivers across Lagos will temporarily stop taking trips by logging out of all ride-hailing apps, including Uber, Bolt, inDrive, and Lagride.
Iwindoye stressed that the strike is not meant to target commuters but to demand fairer working conditions and better safety measures for drivers serving Lagos residents.
He revealed that the union had already submitted a list of 10 demands to ride-hailing companies and relevant authorities.
These demands include immediate fare adjustments to reflect higher fuel costs, vehicle maintenance expenses, and inflation, plus lower commission rates so drivers can earn a livable income.
The union is also calling for a regulated minimum base fare to prevent trips that pay too little, stronger rider verification, and better safety measures.
Other requests include working emergency panic buttons, real-time support to handle security issues, and comprehensive insurance covering accidents, health, and life risks while drivers are on the platforms.
Iwindoye said the union will review responses from the government and companies after the three-day strike.
The feedback will decide whether the strike ends or continues.
He apologised to commuters who may be affected but said the union is still willing to talk and find solutions.
“The union remains open to dialogue,” he said, urging the Lagos State Government, regulators, and ride-hailing companies to urgently meet with drivers’ representatives to resolve the issues.
