E-hailing drivers in Lagos have begun an indefinite strike over unresolved concerns about fares, platform commissions, deductions and working conditions.
The industrial action, which started Monday, Oct. 12, was announced by the Lagos State Council of the Amalgamated Union of App-Based Transporters of Nigeria (AUATON).
In a notice signed by the union’s state chairman, Jaiyesimi Azeez, the drivers said the strike would continue until their concerns were addressed or satisfactory progress was made.
“Despite repeated efforts by drivers and stakeholders to draw attention to these concerns, many of the issues remain unresolved,” the union said.
AUATON said the action was necessary to address challenges affecting drivers’ earnings, welfare, safety and the long-term survival of their businesses.
The union also appealed to fleet owners and managers to suspend daily remittance payments and related targets while the strike lasts.
“During the industrial action, drivers will not be generating their normal revenue from which daily remittance obligations ordinarily arise,” it said.
The union warned fleet partners against imposing “penalties, sanctions or adverse measures” on drivers for joining the strike, arguing that they should not be expected to meet normal financial obligations while not working.
The strike affects drivers using app-based transport platforms, including Bolt and inDrive.
It comes weeks after Uber stopped operating in Nigeria on Sept. 2, leaving fewer major ride-hailing options for passengers.
Bolt has called for constructive dialogue with the union and proposed a roundtable meeting to discuss the drivers’ concerns.
AUATON said it would deploy task force members across Lagos’ local government areas to monitor compliance with the strike directive.
It also warned that drivers who ignored the order could face internal disciplinary action.
The union said better earnings and working conditions could improve driver retention, support vehicle maintenance and reduce disputes with fleet partners.
It added that its goal was not to disrupt businesses unnecessarily but to secure better conditions for drivers and other stakeholders.
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