Commercial transportation in Nigeria began with the use of rickshaws, taxis, and buses, which dominated urban travel for decades.
The traditional taxi system, known locally as kabu-kabu, was one of the primary means of transportation before the emergence of app-based ride-hailing services.
With the advent of digital platforms like Uber, Bolt, LagRide, Rida, InDriver, and others, passengers can now book rides from the comfort of their homes or offices. These platforms offer various advantages, including affordability, accessibility, reduced waiting time, and the ability to track trips in real-time.
However, as e-hailing becomes increasingly popular, safety concerns have also emerged, necessitating vigilance from both passengers and drivers. While these services provide an easier and often safer alternative to traditional taxis, incidents of kidnapping, robbery, and harassment have been reported in different parts of the country.
Hereunder are crucial safety tips to ensure a secure and pleasant ride experience when using e-hailing services in Nigeria:
1. Use Only Verified Ride-Hailing Apps: Ensure you book rides through reputable ride-hailing platforms such as Uber, Bolt, LagRide, InDriver, Rida, and other government-approved services.
In Abuja, a man was robbed after an unauthorised driver accepted his ride request using a fake profile. So, avoid accepting rides from unverified or unknown sources, even if the fare seems lower.
Verified e-hailing apps provide digital records of each trip, making it easier to trace journeys and resolve disputes if any issues arise. Unlike unregulated ride services, these apps offer customer support channels for reporting suspicious activities and ensuring accountability.
2. Verify the Driver and Vehicle Details: Before entering any vehicle, confirm that the car model, colour, and licence plate match the details provided on the app.
Also, check the driver’s photo and name to ensure they match the information on the app.
3. Share Your Trip Details: Always share your ride details, including the driver’s name, vehicle information, and estimated time of arrival (ETA), with a trusted friend or family member.
Try to avoid booking rides late at night, especially when travelling alone. If you must take a ride at night, inform someone about your whereabouts and expected arrival time.
Some e-hailing apps have built-in trip-sharing features that allow real-time tracking.
4. Avoid Sharing Personal Information: Do not disclose personal details such as your home address, workplace, or financial information to the driver.
Keep conversations professional and avoid topics that may expose you to potential risks.
It is also advisable to use cashless payment options such as debit cards, credit cards, or mobile wallets linked to the app. This reduces the risk of robbery or disputes over fare payment.
5. Do Not Fall Asleep During the Ride: Staying alert throughout your journey helps you monitor the driver’s behaviour and the route being taken.
If anything feels wrong, such as the driver taking an unusual route or behaving suspiciously, don’t hesitate to end the trip. Ride-hailing apps allow you to share your location and call emergency contacts if necessary.
In 2021, a female passenger in Lagos reported that her driver took an unfamiliar route and attempted to assault her before she managed to escape.
Avoid distractions such as texting or listening to music at high volumes during the trip.
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