E-hailing drivers in Lagos State have started an indefinite strike due to worries about fare structures, commissions, deductions, and welfare.
The drivers, operating under the Amalgamated Union of App-Based Transporters of Nigeria, announced the industrial action in a notice on Saturday, stating that it would begin on Monday and continue until further notice or until satisfactory progress was achieved in addressing their grievances.
AUATON, which is affiliated with the Nigeria Labour Congress, said the strike came after ongoing concerns about 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 further stated that the choice to launch the strike stemmed from the need to tackle issues impacting drivers’ pay and working conditions.
In order to soften the effects of the industrial action, AUATON urged fleet owners and managers to provide temporary relief from daily remittance duties and associated operational targets throughout 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 announced that its task force would be sent to every local government area in Lagos State to keep an eye on compliance with the strike.
It cautioned that drivers caught operating against its directives might be disciplined under its internal sanctions.
AUATON, on the other hand, called on fleet owners, managers, and the drivers affected to keep communication open and settle operational issues through constructive engagement while the strike lasts.
Stressing the possible gains of meeting its demands, the union noted that better earnings, welfare, and working conditions could improve driver retention, lower turnover, and strengthen drivers’ commitment.
“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 utilization, and reduced operational disputes between drivers and fleet partners,” it said.
The union further noted that improved earnings could also lead to better vehicle maintenance and greater stability within the app-based transportation sector.
It emphasized that its aim was not to needlessly disrupt businesses but rather to push for better working conditions for drivers and other stakeholders.
The notice bore the signature of Jaiyesimi Olalabi Azeez, the Lagos State Chairman of AUATON, widely known as Makavelli, who called on fleet partners to show understanding and cooperation.
The union restated its dedication to peaceful engagement and constructive dialogue with fleet owners, managers, and other stakeholders in order to achieve lasting solutions to the issues that sparked the industrial action.
