Drivers operating on popular ride-hailing platforms in Lagos have begun a three-day strike to protest what they describe as poor working conditions and low fares that no longer reflect the rising cost of living.
The strike was announced by the Lagos chapter of the Amalgamated Union of App-Based Transporters of Nigeria, which represents drivers working with ride-hailing companies.
The union said the industrial action started on Sunday and will last for three days.
According to the union, drivers will temporarily stop accepting ride requests by logging off the apps of major ride-hailing platforms operating in the city.
Union leaders say the strike is aimed at drawing attention to the economic difficulties drivers face while working on the platforms.
Speaking during a news conference in Lagos on Sunday, the union’s Public Relations Officer, Mr. Steven Iwindoye, said many drivers are struggling to survive despite working long hours every day.
According to him, the cost of running vehicles used for ride-hailing services has increased significantly over the past few years.
Drivers must now cope with high petrol prices, vehicle maintenance expenses, inflation, and rising living costs.
However, he said the fares paid by passengers and the policies of ride-hailing companies have not been adjusted to reflect these changes.
“Drivers operating on platforms such as Uber, Bolt, inDrive and Lagride face rising operational costs, including high fuel prices, vehicle maintenance, inflation and daily living expenses,” Iwindoye said.
“Unfortunately, fare structures and policies of these companies have not been adjusted to reflect these economic realities.”
He added that thousands of drivers now find it difficult to earn enough income to support themselves and their families.
The union said the strike is meant to push ride-hailing companies and government authorities to address the challenges affecting drivers.
During the three-day action, drivers across Lagos are expected to log out of the ride-hailing apps and stop accepting passenger bookings.
The union explained that the action is not intended to punish commuters but to highlight the need for reforms in the industry.
“This action is not intended to punish commuters but to seek fair treatment, economic sustainability and safety protections for drivers who provide essential transportation services,” Iwindoye said.
Ride-hailing services have become an important part of daily transportation in Lagos, a city known for heavy traffic and a large population.
Many residents depend on app-based taxis as a safer and more convenient alternative to traditional taxis and buses.
The drivers’ union said it has already submitted a list of 10 key demands to the management of the ride-hailing companies as well as relevant government authorities.
One of the major demands is an immediate review of fares.
The union said the current fare structure does not reflect the rising cost of petrol, vehicle maintenance and inflation.
Drivers are also demanding a reduction in the commission charged by ride-hailing companies on each trip.
Typically, ride-hailing platforms take a percentage of every ride fare paid by passengers.
Drivers argue that the current commission rates leave them with little profit after paying for fuel and other expenses.
The union is also calling for the introduction of a regulated minimum base fare.
According to drivers, some trips offered through the apps are priced so low that drivers end up making very little money.
Apart from financial concerns, drivers are also raising issues related to safety and welfare.
The union said there is a need for better systems to verify passengers before trips begin.
Drivers have in the past complained about security risks, including robbery and assault by passengers.
To address these risks, the union is demanding improved rider verification systems on the platforms.
Drivers also want functional emergency panic buttons that can quickly alert security services if a driver is in danger.
They are also asking for real-time response systems that can provide immediate assistance during emergencies.
The union wants comprehensive accident, health and life insurance for drivers while they are actively using the ride-hailing platforms.
The strike may affect many commuters in Lagos who depend on ride-hailing services for daily transportation.
If a large number of drivers log off the apps during the strike period, passengers may experience fewer available vehicles and longer waiting times.
However, union officials said they regret any inconvenience the strike may cause to residents.
Iwindoye apologized to commuters but said the action was necessary to protect the livelihood of drivers.
“We apologise to Lagos residents for any inconvenience this action might cause,” he said.
Ride-hailing services have grown rapidly in Lagos over the past decade.
Platforms such as Uber and Bolt entered the Nigerian market in the mid-2010s, offering smartphone-based taxi services that connect passengers directly with drivers.
Later, other companies such as inDrive joined the market.
The Lagos State Government also introduced Lagride as part of efforts to modernise the city’s transport system.
While the services created job opportunities for many Nigerians, the industry has also faced disputes between drivers and ride-hailing companies over earnings and working conditions.
Drivers have organized protests and strikes in the past to demand better pay and improved policies.
The union said it remains open to dialogue with both the ride-hailing companies and the government.
According to the drivers’ representatives, meaningful discussions could help address many of the concerns raised by drivers.
Iwindoye called on the Lagos State Government, regulatory agencies and the management of the ride-hailing companies to engage with the union to find solutions.
He said cooperation between all parties is necessary to ensure that the ride-hailing sector remains sustainable for drivers while continuing to serve commuters.
The union said it will review the situation after the three-day strike.
According to Iwindoye, the next step will depend on how the ride-hailing companies and government authorities respond to the drivers’ demands.
If negotiations begin and progress is made, the union may suspend further action.
However, if the concerns raised by drivers are not addressed, the union warned that the strike could be extended.
