Uber, Bolt, inDrive, Lagride drivers declare strike

Drivers operating ride-hailing services in Lagos under the Amalgamated Union of App-Based Transporters of Nigeria (AUATON) have announced a three-day industrial action scheduled to commence on Sunday.

The union disclosed the planned shutdown during a press briefing in Lagos addressed by its Public Relations Officer, Mr Steven Iwindoye.

According to him, the action followed months of unresolved complaints by drivers over deteriorating working conditions and declining earnings on digital ride-hailing platforms.

Drivers affiliated with companies such as Uber, Bolt, inDrive and Lagride have repeatedly voiced dissatisfaction over what they described as unfavourable fare structures, particularly on the Bolt platform.

Iwindoye explained that worsening economic realities had made it increasingly difficult for drivers to sustain their livelihoods.

“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.

He noted that the planned strike was intended to compel urgent reforms within the industry.

As part of the protest, drivers across Lagos will temporarily suspend operations by logging out of all ride-hailing applications, including Uber, Bolt, inDrive and Lagride.

Iwindoye emphasised that the action was not targeted at commuters but aimed at securing fairer working conditions and stronger safety protections for drivers who provide transport services to residents of the state.

He revealed that the union had forwarded a list of 10 demands to ride-hailing companies and relevant authorities.

The demands, he said, include an immediate adjustment of fares to reflect rising fuel costs, vehicle servicing expenses and inflation, as well as a reduction in the commissions charged by the platforms to allow drivers earn sustainable incomes.

The union is also advocating the introduction of a regulated minimum base fare to prevent extremely low-paying trips and improved rider verification measures.

Other requests include the deployment of effective emergency panic buttons, rapid real-time support systems to address security threats, and comprehensive insurance packages covering accidents, health issues and life risks for drivers while active on ride-hailing platforms.

Iwindoye added that the union would evaluate responses from both the government and the companies after the three-day strike.

He said the outcome of that assessment would determine whether the industrial action would be suspended or prolonged.

While apologising to commuters who might be affected by the disruption, he stressed that the union remained willing to engage in discussions to resolve the dispute.

“The union remains open to dialogue,” he said, urging the Lagos State Government, regulators and ride-hailing companies to urgently meet with drivers’ representatives to find lasting solutions to the issues raised.