Why We Have Chosen To Go On Strike — Uber, Bolt Drivers

The Amalgamated Union Of App-Based Transport Workers Of Nigeria (AUATWON), which represents e-hailing drivers, has disclosed why its members have begun an industrial action.

Speaking in a statement, the union said that it has suspended its operations as a result of low prices, calling a 25 and 30 per cent rise by app-based companies like Uber and Bolt less than its demands of a 200 per cent increase.

The union began the strike on Wednesday which was necessitated by the request that the firms lower their commissions as they did not correspond to industry benchmark rates.

Members of the union have made it clear that they can no longer work under these circumstances.

They also advised all app-based workers across the nation to resist the 'menace' under their demands are met.

“The union’s technical team is versed with the operation and technicality of ride-hailing companies and on our calculations, any app company can break even charging below five per cent even though the union recommended a flat commission of 10 per cent or 50 per cent off their current commission during our last meeting, as we believe this will help us to cope with maintenance costs, spare parts and various overhead cost and the current fuel increase.

“We can no longer tolerate any act of dictatorial practices by any app company because we are workers and as an organised union, we have written several letters to these companies for a round table discussion where we can look at various areas of concern and dialogue but they have remained adamant with a deliberate intention to avoid responsibility.

“So, as a result of this insensitivity, the union is directing all its members across the nation to shut down their service on all ride-hailing applications from Wednesday, June 7, 2023, in protest against every dictatorial practice and lack of concern for welfare and security of App-Based Transport workers of Nigeria.

“This is a solidarity step we must take together to protect our investment as fleet managers, secure our business as workers, and secure our job as app drivers.

“We are confident this will give us a better and profitable industry that will encourage every stakeholder”, part of the statement reads.