Uber, Bolt, other drivers plan May 1 strike over low fares

Uber, Bolt, other drivers plan May 1 strike over low fares

Uber, Bolt, Lagride, in Drive, and Rida

Ride-hailing drivers in Lagos plan to halt services on May 1, 2025, accusing Uber, Bolt, Lagride, inDrive, and Rida of exploitation through low fares and high commissions, the Amalgamated Union of App-Based Transporters of Nigeria said on Tuesday.

The 24-hour shutdown, involving about 5,000 drivers, aims to disrupt Nigeria’s $273 million ride-hailing market. The drivers are demanding better wages and safer conditions, AUATON’s Public Relations Officer, Steven Iwindoye, noted in a statement shared with PUNCH Online.

Drivers face commission rates of 25-30 per cent and fares as low as N1,200 for 10km trips, compounded by rising fuel costs since the 2023 subsidy removal.

“Despite our efforts to engage in dialogue, these companies have consistently prioritised their profits over our well-being,” the union said. “They’ve ignored our pleas for fair compensation, safe working conditions, and respect for our rights as workers.”

As part of the action, drivers will log off their apps and stay off the roads to demand better compensation, safety guarantees, and recognition of their rights.

The protest, timed for International Workers’ Day, follows growing scrutiny of the global gig economy, with similar actions already taken in the US and South Africa.

AUATON said it plans to establish a negotiation framework after the strike, working with labour groups to push for reforms.

“This is not just about drivers being off the road for one day,” said the union. “It’s about building a united front to demand dignity and fairness for the people who keep the digital transport economy running.”