E-Hailing Drivers Set for Nationwide Strike Over Poor Working Conditions

Lagos, Nigeria – Thousands of e-hailing drivers across Nigeria are set to down tools next week in a coordinated strike against what they describe as unfair labor practices by ride-hailing platforms. The drivers, operating under the Amalgamated Union of App-based Transporters of Nigeria (AUATON), are demanding better pay, improved working conditions, and more transparent policies from companies like Uber, Bolt, and inDrive.

Why Drivers Are Protesting

The drivers’ grievances center on several key issues:

1. Low Earnings and High Commissions
   Drivers say their take-home pay has dropped significantly due to increasing platform commissions, which can be as high as 25-30% per trip. Meanwhile, rising fuel costs and vehicle maintenance expenses have further squeezed their profits.

1. Unfair Deactivations and Lack of Support
   Many drivers complain of being abruptly deactivated from platforms without clear explanations or proper appeal processes. Some claim they were penalized for rejecting trips in high-risk areas, leaving them without income for days.

2. No Benefits or Labor Protections
   Unlike traditional transport workers, e-hailing drivers are classified as independent contractors, denying them benefits like health insurance, pensions, or minimum wage guarantees.

Strike Action Planned

The union has announced that drivers will go offline for 48 hours starting Monday, July 15, in major cities including Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt, and Ibadan. They are demanding:

• A reduction in commission rates from ride-hailing companies.

• Clearer policies on account suspensions and reactivations.

• Government intervention to regulate the sector and protect drivers’ rights.

Industry Response

Bolt and Uber have yet to issue official statements, but sources within the companies say they are “monitoring the situation.” Previous strikes in 2022 and 2023 led to minor concessions, but drivers say little has changed.

What This Means for Passengers

Commuters should expect longer wait times and surge pricing during the strike period. Some drivers may remain active, but union leaders are urging full participation to pressure platforms into negotiations.

Government’s Role in the Crisis

The Nigerian government has been called upon to mediate and establish labor protections for gig workers. Lawmakers are currently reviewing the Digital Workers Rights Bill, which could mandate fair wages and dispute resolution mechanisms.

Final Word

If the strike proceeds as planned, it could disrupt transportation in major cities and reignite debates over the rights of app-based workers. For now, drivers remain resolute.

“We can’t keep working like this,” said AUATON chairman Ayoade Ibrahim. “If they won’t listen to us, we’ll make sure they feel our absence.”