App-based transport drivers in Lagos have commenced a three-day strike to protest poor working conditions and what they describe as unsustainable fares on ride-hailing platforms.
The action was announced by the Lagos chapter of the Amalgamated Union of App-Based Transporters of Nigeria (AUATON) during a press briefing on Sunday.
According to the union’s Public Relations Officer, Steven Iwindoye, the strike followed prolonged complaints by drivers over worsening economic conditions and the failure of ride-hailing companies to review fare structures.
He explained that drivers operating on platforms such as Uber, Bolt, inDrive and Lagride are struggling with rising operational costs, including high fuel prices, vehicle maintenance, inflation and increasing living expenses.
Iwindoye said many drivers now find it difficult to earn sustainable incomes despite working long hours because fares have not been adjusted to reflect current economic realities.
He noted that during the strike period, drivers across Lagos would log off from all ride-hailing platforms as part of efforts to push for reforms within the sector.
The union said the action is not aimed at punishing commuters but at demanding fair treatment, economic sustainability and better safety protections for drivers who provide essential transportation services.
AUATON also disclosed that it had presented 10 key demands to ride-hailing companies and relevant authorities. These include an immediate review of fares to reflect current costs of fuel and maintenance, a reduction in commission charged by ride-hailing companies, and the introduction of a regulated minimum base fare.
Other demands include improved rider verification systems, functional emergency panic buttons for drivers, faster emergency response mechanisms, and comprehensive accident, health and life insurance coverage while drivers are active on the platforms.
The union said it would review responses from the companies and government authorities after the three-day shutdown to determine whether the strike would be suspended or extended.
Iwindoye apologised to residents for any inconvenience caused and urged the state government, regulators and ride-hailing companies to urgently engage with driver representatives to resolve the issues.