Lagos App-Based Drivers to Strike on May Day, Demanding Fair Treatment
Lagos, Nigeria – The Amalgamated Union of App-Based Transporters of Nigeria (AUATON), Lagos chapter, has announced a 24-hour strike on May Day to protest alleged exploitative practices by ride-hailing companies like Uber, Bolt, Lagride, inDrive, and Rida. The union, citing numerous grievances, will effectively shut down its services across the city to bring attention to its demands.
In a statement released Tuesday, AUATON’s Public Relations Officer, Steven Iwindoye, detailed a litany of concerns, accusing the companies of prioritizing profit over the well-being of their drivers. The union contends that drivers face unfair wage structures, arbitrary account suspensions, safety concerns, and the imposition of policies that they perceive as exploitative.
Specifically, AUATON members are protesting excessive commissions, a lack of driver protections within the apps, mandatory facial recognition technology, and poor working conditions. The union claims that attempts at negotiation have failed, leaving them with no choice but to take direct action.
“We’ve tried dialogue, but these companies only seem to understand economic pressure,” Iwindoye stated. “By halting our services, we aim to send a strong message that we won’t be ignored or disrespected. Following the strike, we will present clear demands and a structured plan for negotiations, engaging with media, labour organizations, and stakeholders to amplify our message and build support.”
AUATON is calling for a unified global response to the issues faced by app-based transportation workers worldwide. The union argues that these companies have disregarded the union’s pleas for fair wages, safe working conditions, and respect for worker rights, instead prioritizing their own financial gain.
Iwindoye emphasizes a collective stance, asserting that app-based drivers are not isolated individuals but a unified force that cannot be ignored. The 24-hour strike on May 1st is expected to significantly impact transportation services in Lagos, as drivers refuse to operate on the various platforms.
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