Lagos e-hailing drivers begin indefinite strike over fares

E-hailing drivers in Lagos State have begun an indefinite strike over concerns about fare structures, commissions, deductions and welfare.

The drivers, under the Amalgamated Union of App-Based Transporters of Nigeria, announced the industrial action in a notice seen by PUNCH Metro on Saturday, saying it would commence on Monday and continue until further notice or satisfactory progress was made in addressing their grievances.

AUATON, an affiliate of the Nigeria Labour Congress, said the strike followed persistent concerns over operational policies, drivers’ welfare, safety, security and the sustainability of their operations.

“Despite repeated efforts by drivers and stakeholders to draw attention to these concerns, many of the issues remain unresolved,” the union said

It added that the decision to embark on the strike was informed by the need to address challenges affecting drivers’ earnings and working conditions.

To cushion the impact of the industrial action, AUATON appealed to fleet owners and managers to grant temporary relief from daily remittance obligations and related operational targets for the duration of the strike.

“During the industrial action, drivers will not be generating their normal revenue from which daily remittance obligations ordinarily arise.

We, therefore, appeal to fleet partners to refrain from imposing penalties, sanctions or adverse measures solely on the basis of a driver’s participation in the action, as drivers are not expected to operate during this period,” the notice read.

The union said its task force would be deployed across all local government areas in Lagos State to monitor compliance with the strike.

It warned that drivers found operating in violation of its directives could face sanctions under its internal disciplinary measures.

AUATON, however, urged fleet owners, managers and affected drivers to maintain open communication and resolve operational concerns through constructive engagement during the strike.

Highlighting the potential benefits of addressing its demands, the union said improved earnings, welfare and operating conditions could help boost driver retention, reduce turnover and improve commitment among drivers.

“Meaningful improvements in driver earnings, welfare and operating conditions may contribute to improved driver retention and reduced turnover, better driver commitment and engagement, more sustainable vehicle utilisation and reduced operational disputes between drivers and fleet partners,” it said.

The union added that better earnings could also improve vehicle maintenance and promote stability in the app-based transportation sector.

It stressed that its objective was not to disrupt businesses unnecessarily but to advocate better operating conditions for drivers and other stakeholders.

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

The union reiterated its commitment to peaceful engagement and constructive dialogue with fleet owners, managers and other stakeholders to find lasting solutions to the issues prompting the industrial action