The Amalgamated Union of App-Based Transporters of Nigeria
(AUATON) has petitioned the national assembly over what it describes as the
“exploitation” of ride-hailing drivers by operators of digital transport
platforms.
According to a statement, the union, which also petitioned
the Lagos house of assembly, further expressed its grievance by protesting on
Thursday in commemoration of May Day.
It was learnt that the protest led to the suspension of
services for 24 hours across Nigeria.
Steven Iwindoye, spokesperson of AUATON Lagos, said the
petition highlights the “poor treatment” of workers who power ride-hailing
platforms such as Uber, Bolt, inDrive, Lagride, and Rida.
“For too long, we have been subjected to exploitation,
insecurity, and a lack of recognition,” the statement reads.
“We have been paid below the cost price of premium services,
forced to endure modern-day slavery in the form of technological manipulation”.
The union listed its demands, which include a 5 percent
commission cap, price autonomy for drivers, and recognition as legitimate
stakeholders in Nigeria’s transportation ecosystem.
Iwindoye warned that if the companies fail to respond, the
union will escalate its action by picketing their offices.
“If App companies (App sharks) fails to comply, we shall
massively move to a new indigenous App companies who are ready and willing to
comply with drivers demands,” he said.
He also revealed that AUATON is working with other
stakeholders to build a driver-led ride-hailing platform that upholds fairer
practices.
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