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LAGOS, Nigeria - The petition alleges that the specified platforms are engaged in systematic neglect and exploitative practices that jeopardize the lives and livelihoods of numerous drivers in Lagos.
Detailing the main grievances outlined in the petition, the union criticized inadequate driver profiling and passenger safety measures on these platforms, noting the lack of a centralized driver identification system and proper verification for passengers.
The union pointed to a specific incident involving a passenger who was robbed and attacked by a driver using the Indrive app as an example.
Another concern raised is the arbitrary pricing policies, with the union accusing inDrive, Bolt, and other apps of implementing pricing algorithms without consulting drivers, frequently reducing fares and increasing commissions, which has left drivers struggling to maintain their livelihoods.
Furthermore, the petition highlights the absence of welfare support, mentioning that despite significant commission deductions, e-hailing drivers reportedly lack access to structured welfare or support systems, making them vulnerable to financial instability and various occupational risks.
Discrepancies in commission rates were also addressed, with the union asserting that, while the e-hailing companies claim to enforce a standard 25 percent commission, drivers report actual deductions that are considerably higher, thus diminishing their earnings.
Additionally, the union claimed that the companies have suppressed union rights, refusing to engage with the organization and violating workers' rights to organize and participate in collective bargaining, as secured by Nigerian and international labor laws.
In light of systemic and legal issues, the petition raises broader concerns impacting the industry, such as the misclassification of drivers as "independent contractors," which temporarily denies them full employee protections. There are also complaints about arbitrary and punitive deactivations of driver accounts, especially for those involved in peaceful demonstrations, as well as the lack of social protections like pensions, insurance, or leave benefits.
In their petition, AUATON urged the Lagos State House of Assembly to organize a Restorative Justice Conference in July 2025, aiming to bring together the government, ride-hailing companies like Uber, Bolt, inDrive, and drivers to establish a new national policy that would acknowledge drivers as workers with full rights.
Legislators were tasked with ensuring bona fide participation from all ride-hailing companies and to monitor the reforms that are to be agreed upon. They were also encouraged to provide legislative support for any policy outcomes developed during the conference, alongside a clear implementation framework and timeline.
Lastly, the union called for the House of Assembly to enforce a robust driver verification system, co-managed with AUATON, to enhance passenger safety and driver credibility. They also requested the implementation of stringent passenger verification measures using valid national IDs to protect drivers from violence, kidnappings, and scams.
