Lagos E-Hailing Drivers Halt Operations Indefinitely Over Fares, Deductions

E-hailing drivers in Lagos State have commenced an indefinite strike over disputes surrounding fare structures, platform commissions, earnings deductions and welfare, threatening to disrupt app-based transport services across the state.

The Amalgamated Union of App-Based Transporters of Nigeria (AUATON), an affiliate of the Nigeria Labour Congress, announced the industrial action in a notice issued on Saturday, directing drivers to withdraw their services from Monday until further notice or until satisfactory progress is made in resolving their grievances.

The union said the strike followed prolonged concerns about operational policies, drivers’ welfare, safety, security and the long-term viability of their work.

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

According to AUATON, the action is intended to compel stakeholders to address conditions affecting drivers’ incomes and working arrangements.

The union also appealed to fleet owners and managers to ease financial obligations imposed on drivers while the strike remains in force, noting that those who suspend operations would be unable to generate the revenue normally used to meet daily remittance requirements.

“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.

AUATON said it would deploy its task force across all local government areas in Lagos to monitor compliance with the strike directive.

It warned that drivers who operate in defiance of the order could face disciplinary action under the union’s internal rules.

Despite the planned enforcement measures, the union urged drivers, fleet operators and managers to maintain communication and use the period to address outstanding disagreements through dialogue.

AUATON argued that resolving the disputes over fares, deductions and welfare could benefit not only drivers but also fleet partners and the wider app-based transport industry.

It said improved remuneration and working conditions could help retain drivers, reduce turnover and strengthen their commitment to service delivery.

“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 also linked better earnings to improved vehicle maintenance and greater stability across the e-hailing sector.

It maintained that the industrial action was not intended to cause unnecessary disruption to businesses but to secure better operating conditions for drivers and other participants in the industry.

The notice was signed by AUATON Lagos State Chairman, Jaiyesimi Olalabi Azeez, popularly known as Makavelli, who appealed to fleet partners to cooperate with the union during the dispute.

AUATON reiterated its readiness to pursue peaceful engagement with fleet owners, managers and other stakeholders, expressing hope that constructive dialogue would produce lasting solutions to the issues behind the strike.