The Amalgamated Union of App-Based Transporters of Nigeria, which represents app-based drivers in Lagos and Ogun States, has shut down ride-hailing services due to reported low prices and growing operating expenses. According to a note signed by Comrade Yusuf Bamidele, the union secretary, and sent to drivers, partners, and fleet owners on Sunday, the shutdown is scheduled to take place on Monday from 5:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Additionally, the union asked members to avoid accepting or finishing rides and to log out of any ride-hailing services during that time.
Also, drivers were urged to encourage their peers to join in solidarity while maintaining the action's professionalism, discipline, and peace. The union claims that the shutdown is intended to raise awareness of various issues that app-based drivers nationwide face.
The union also mentioned the increasing safety and security issues that drivers have while performing their jobs. It stated that the cooperation and dedication of drivers, partners, and fleet owners will be essential to the action's success.
According to Bamidele, the shutdown was a component of initiatives to promote more equitable laws, better working conditions, and a more sustainable future for app-based transportation in Nigeria. The union has long criticized the industry's poor welfare conditions, mostly attributing them to ride-hailing businesses' low charges.
Recall that the union went on a nationwide strike in July 2023 to get what it wanted. Drivers then staged a number of protests about the same problem. Calls to Uber's and Bolt's phone lines seeking comment had not yet received a response. As of the time this report was filed, the companies had not responded to a text message that was sent to them.
