By Ameh Gabriel
The Lagos State Chapter of the Amalgamated Union of App-Based Transporters of Nigeria (AUATON) has announced plans for a 24-hour protest on May Day to highlight alleged anti-labour practices by ride-hailing companies, including Uber and Bolt.
In a statement released on Tuesday by AUATON’s Public Relations Officer, Steven Iwindoye, the union revealed that its members would refrain from working, demanding that their rights be acknowledged and respected by the companies.
The protest stems from concerns over low wages, unfair deactivations, unsafe working conditions, and rising insecurity faced by app-based transporters. Iwindoye also pointed out other grievances, including high commission fees charged by companies, the mandatory use of facial recognition technology, lack of adequate rider profiles, and exploitative work policies.
Iwindoye accused Uber, Bolt, Lagride, inDrive, and Rida of neglecting the union’s concerns and violating workers’ rights. He further stated, “We’ve exhausted all avenues of dialogue, but these companies refuse to listen. They only understand one thing: economic pressure.”
The union plans to send a strong message through the 24-hour shutdown, making it clear that they will not tolerate further mistreatment. “Following the shutdown, we will present our demands and establish a clear path forward for negotiations,” Iwindoye said. “We will engage with media outlets, labour organisations, and other allies to amplify our voices and garner wider support.”
In calling for a global response to the challenges faced by app-based transport workers, Iwindoye emphasized the exploitation of workers for corporate profits. “Despite our repeated efforts to engage in dialogue, these companies continue to prioritize their earnings over the safety, fair compensation, and dignity of their drivers,” he added.
The union is urging solidarity from both local and international communities, saying, “This is a global call to action. We stand united as drivers, and we will not be ignored any longer.”
