The Amalgamated Union of App Based Transporters of Nigeria (AUATON), Lagos State chapter, has announced a three day strike beginning Sunday, protesting what it described as poor working conditions and unsustainable fares imposed by ride-hailing platforms.
The announcement was made during a press conference in Lagos by the union’s Public Relations Officer, Steven Iwindoye, who said drivers had resolved to withdraw their services to demand better operating conditions.
According to the News Agency of Nigeria, drivers operating on digital ride-hailing platforms have been expressing growing concerns about the economic pressures affecting their work.
Iwindoye said drivers working with platforms such as Uber, Bolt, inDrive, and LagRide were facing increasing financial strain due to rising operational costs.
“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 explained that despite the rising costs, fares on the platforms had remained largely unchanged, leaving many drivers struggling to break even.
“The fares offered on these platforms are no longer sustainable for drivers, especially considering the economic realities in the country,” Iwindoye stated.
The union said the strike would involve drivers across Lagos who operate on app-based platforms and warned that the action could disrupt ride-hailing services across the state during the period.
According to AUATON, the industrial action is aimed at drawing the attention of ride-hailing companies and relevant authorities to the need for fair pricing, improved welfare, and policies that protect drivers.
The union also urged the companies to engage drivers in meaningful dialogue to address their concerns and ensure the sustainability of app-based transport services in Nigeria.