E-hailing drivers in Lagos State, under the Amalgamated Union of App-Based Transporters of Nigeria, have embarked on an indefinite strike. The industrial action, which commenced on Monday, was announced in a notice seen on Saturday. The union cited persistent concerns over operational policies, drivers' welfare, safety, security, and the sustainability of their operations as reasons for the strike. The decision to go on strike was made to address challenges affecting drivers' earnings and working conditions.
The Amalgamated Union of App-Based Transporters of Nigeria, an affiliate of the Nigeria Labour Congress, had been pushing for better operating conditions for its members. Despite repeated efforts by drivers and stakeholders to draw attention to these concerns, many of the issues remain unresolved. The union's task force will be deployed across all local government areas in Lagos State to monitor compliance with the strike. Drivers found operating in violation of the union's directives could face sanctions under its internal disciplinary measures.
To cushion the impact of the industrial action, the union appealed to fleet owners and managers to grant temporary relief from daily remittance obligations and related operational targets for the duration of the strike. This appeal was made because drivers will not be generating their normal revenue during the strike, from which daily remittance obligations ordinarily arise. The union urged fleet owners, managers, and affected drivers to maintain open communication and resolve operational concerns through constructive engagement during the strike.
The strike by e-hailing drivers in Lagos State may have significant effects on the transportation sector. Improved earnings, welfare, and operating conditions could help boost driver retention, reduce turnover, and improve commitment among drivers. The union believes that meaningful improvements in driver earnings, welfare, and operating conditions may contribute to more sustainable vehicle utilisation and reduced operational disputes between drivers and fleet partners.
The Amalgamated Union of App-Based Transporters of Nigeria highlighted the potential benefits of addressing its demands. Better earnings could also improve vehicle maintenance and promote stability in the app-based transportation sector. The union stressed that its objective was not to disrupt businesses unnecessarily but to advocate better operating conditions for drivers and other stakeholders.
The notice for the strike was signed by the Lagos State Chairman of AUATON, Jaiyesimi Olalabi Azeez, popularly known as Makavelli. He appealed to fleet partners for understanding and cooperation. The union reiterated its commitment to peaceful engagement and constructive dialogue with fleet owners, managers, and other stakeholders to find lasting solutions to the issues prompting the industrial action.
The strike by e-hailing drivers in Lagos State is a result of unresolved concerns over fare structures, commissions, deductions, and welfare. The Amalgamated Union of App-Based Transporters of Nigeria is working towards finding a resolution to these issues through engagement with fleet owners, managers, and other stakeholders. The union aims to improve the working conditions and earnings of its members, which could have a positive impact on the app-based transportation sector in Lagos State.
Key points
- E-hailing drivers in Lagos State have begun an indefinite strike over concerns about fare structures, commissions, deductions, and welfare.
- The strike was announced by the Amalgamated Union of App-Based Transporters of Nigeria, an affiliate of the Nigeria Labour Congress.
- The union is seeking better operating conditions, improved earnings, and welfare for its members.
