Ride-hailing drivers operating on Bolt and inDrive platforms in Lagos have announced an indefinite service shutdown starting Monday, October 12, citing unresolved grievances over earnings, platform charges, and working conditions. The action, declared by the Lagos State Council of the Amalgamated Union of App-Based Transporters of Nigeria (AUATON), aims to pressure the companies to address driver income, welfare, and the rising cost of operating vehicles.
Union Demands Fairer Fares and Transparency
In a statement signed by AUATON's Public Relations Officer, Steven Iwindoye, the union said drivers have continued to face financial difficulties despite repeated complaints about fare determination and commission deductions. According to Punch, the union highlighted that operating a ride-hailing vehicle now involves expenses such as petrol, repairs, tyres, insurance, internet data, and vehicle loans, which significantly reduce take-home earnings.
AUATON is also seeking better welfare arrangements and safeguards against what it described as arbitrary deactivation of drivers' accounts. The union maintains that many drivers find it increasingly difficult to maintain their vehicles and earn a reasonable income under current conditions.
Bolt Proposes Talks Ahead of Shutdown
Bolt has responded to the planned shutdown by proposing a roundtable discussion with AUATON and driver representatives early next week, as reported by The Guardian. The company acknowledged the financial challenges drivers face and expressed a commitment to improving conditions for those providing services through its platform.
Weyinmi Aghadiuno, Bolt's head of regulatory and policy for Africa, said the company is willing to listen to the issues raised and work toward practical solutions. “Drivers are central to the ride-hailing ecosystem, and we recognise the economic realities they are navigating. We take the concerns being raised seriously and believe the best way forward is through constructive, open and solution-oriented engagement,” Aghadiuno said.
Bolt said the issues raised by AUATON include driver earnings, operating expenses, platform fees, transparency, and welfare. The company added that it is reviewing ways to improve drivers' experiences and strengthen support systems. It appealed to drivers to continue accepting trips while the proposed discussions are being arranged.
AUATON Seeks Government Intervention
Beyond its demands from ride-hailing companies, AUATON has called on the Lagos State Government, federal authorities, and relevant labour institutions to intervene. The union argued that the industry's long-term viability depends on ensuring drivers can cover operating expenses and sustain their businesses.
AUATON warned that technological innovation should not come at the expense of workers' financial wellbeing. The union also said it is considering alternative arrangements that would give drivers greater independence and promote transparency and accountability.
This development follows the recent exit of Moove, the vehicle financing company backed by Uber, from Nigeria. Moove shut down its operations roughly one month after Uber wound down its 12-year presence in Nigeria and Uganda following a review of investment allocation across Africa.
