E-hailing drivers in Lagos and Ogun State, operating under the umbrella of the Amalgamated Union of App-based Transporters of Nigeria (AUATON), have declared a significant strike action against popular ride-hailing platforms including Uber, Bolt, and inDrive. The three-day boycott, scheduled from Monday, March 16, to Wednesday, March 18, is a direct protest against what the union describes as poor remuneration amidst increasingly challenging economic conditions.

The decision to initiate this shutdown follows prolonged complaints and unresolved concerns regarding the harsh realities faced by app-based transport workers. Drivers are grappling with escalating operational costs, such as the soaring prices of fuel, vehicle maintenance expenses, general inflation, and rising daily living costs. AUATON spokesperson, Steven Iwindoye, emphasized that despite these economic pressures, the fare structures and policies of the e-hailing companies have not been adjusted to reflect current realities, leading to thousands of drivers struggling to survive despite working extremely long hours.

In response to these grievances, AUATON has put forth 10 critical demands to both the ride-hailing companies and relevant government authorities. A primary demand is the immediate adjustment of fare reviews to accurately reflect the current cost of fuel, vehicle maintenance, and inflation across Nigeria. Additionally, the union is calling for a reduction in the "excessive" commission fees, which currently hover around 30 percent plus VAT, to allow drivers to earn a sustainable income. They also demand the introduction of a minimum base fare to prevent trips with unusually low payouts that undermine drivers' livelihoods.

Safety concerns are also paramount for the drivers, who are demanding an industry-wide rider verification system to ensure their security. Other key demands include comprehensive insurance coverage for drivers, an end to unjust deactivations from the platforms, the implementation of transparent pricing systems, and the establishment of fuel price adjustment mechanisms. The union also seeks formal recognition for AUATON and the implementation of driver welfare programs, alongside clear regulations that protect the rights and economic sustainability of app-based drivers.

Addressing the potential inconvenience to the public, AUATON expressed its sincere apologies to residents of Lagos State, urging understanding for the severe economic hardship faced by drivers who provide essential transportation services. The union stated that drivers would log off all e-hailing platforms, including Lagride, for the duration of the strike. At the conclusion of the three-day shutdown, AUATON will review responses from ride-hailing companies and the government to determine whether to suspend or extend the strike.

Recognizing past challenges with driver compliance during previous strike actions, AUATON has implemented stronger coordination mechanisms to ensure improved adherence across Lagos and Ogun States. These measures include extensive mobilization efforts across driver communities, parks, airport driver groups, and online forums. The union has also established operational zones in both states with designated coordinators responsible for mobilization, communication, and compliance monitoring. Furthermore, a Strike Monitoring Task Force and Driver Engagement Teams will operate across major strategic areas, including airports and business districts, to encourage drivers to respect the collective decision for the overall welfare of the community. AUATON emphasized that this strike is part of a broader strategic effort to push for long-term reforms within the ride-hailing industry, advocating for fair policies that ensure long-term sustainability for drivers.