Lagos e-hailing drivers start strike over fare issues

E-hailing drivers in Lagos State have kicked off an indefinite strike. They have concerns about fare structures, commissions, deductions, and their overall welfare.

The drivers, part of the Amalgamated Union of App-Based Transporters of Nigeria, shared this news in a notice seen by PUNCH Metro on Saturday. They said the strike would start on Monday and will continue until their issues are addressed or they see satisfactory progress.

AUATON, which is linked to the Nigeria Labour Congress, explained that the strike is due to ongoing worries about operational policies, drivers’ welfare, safety, security, and how sustainable their work is.

“Despite many attempts by drivers and stakeholders to highlight these issues, a lot of them are still unresolved,” the union said.

They also mentioned that the decision to go on strike is to tackle the challenges affecting drivers’ earnings and their working conditions. To help lessen the impact of the strike, AUATON asked fleet owners and managers to ease daily remittance obligations and targets during this period.

“During the strike, drivers won’t be making their usual revenue which is needed for daily remittance obligations. We, therefore, ask fleet partners not to impose penalties, sanctions, or any negative actions just because a driver is part of this action. Drivers are not expected to work during this time,” the notice stated.

The union said it would send task force members to all local government areas in Lagos State to ensure the strike is followed. They warned that any drivers found working against their instructions could face consequences based on their internal rules.

AUATON also encouraged fleet owners, managers, and drivers to keep communication open and try to solve their operational problems through constructive talks during the strike.

The union pointed out that meeting their demands could lead to better earnings, welfare, and working conditions for drivers. This could help keep drivers from leaving, lower turnover, and increase their commitment.

“Real improvements in driver earnings, welfare, and working conditions may lead to better driver retention, less turnover, stronger driver commitment and engagement, improved vehicle use, and fewer disputes between drivers and fleet partners,” they said.

They added that better earnings could also help with vehicle maintenance and bring stability to the app-based transport sector. They emphasized that their goal is not to disrupt businesses but to push for better working conditions for drivers and others involved.

The notice was signed by Jaiyesimi Olalabi Azeez, the Lagos State Chairman of AUATON, who is known as Makavelli. He appealed to fleet partners for understanding and support.

The union promised to keep seeking peaceful engagement and constructive discussions with fleet owners, managers, and other stakeholders to find lasting solutions to the issues behind the strike.