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.
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