‘We Are Suffering’ — Lagos E-Hailing Drivers Announce, Continue Strike Over Poor Earnings

E-hailing drivers in Lagos State have continued their indefinite strike over poor earnings, high commissions, deductions and worsening working conditions, with some operators saying they are struggling to make ends meet despite relying on the business for their livelihoods.

The drivers, operating under the Amalgamated Union of App-Based Transporters of Nigeria (AUATON), began the industrial action on Monday and were still off the roads on Wednesday, the third day of the strike, with no indication of an immediate resolution.

One of the drivers, Tosin Akindele, said many operators were suffering financially and could no longer sustain themselves under the existing arrangements with ride-hailing companies.

“We are not enjoying the job again as operational policies are now toxic and we have no security on this job,” Akindele said.

He said the union embarked on the strike to compel ride-hailing companies and relevant authorities to address the challenges confronting drivers.

Another driver, Sulaimon, said many operators were barely surviving and hoped the industrial action would draw attention to their plight.

He said drivers were determined to press their demands and demonstrate the difficulties they faced while working on app-based transport platforms.

The drivers are demanding a review of fare structures, commissions and deductions, alongside improved welfare, safety and security measures.

AUATON, an affiliate of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), said the strike followed persistent concerns over operational policies, drivers’ welfare and the sustainability of their work.

The union believes resolving the issues could improve drivers’ earnings and working conditions, encourage more operators to remain in the business and strengthen their commitment to the service.

In a notice signed by AUATON’s Lagos State chairman, Jaiyesimi Olalabi Azeez, the union said repeated efforts by drivers and stakeholders to draw attention to their concerns had failed to resolve several outstanding issues.

It also announced plans to deploy its task force across all local government areas in Lagos State to monitor compliance with the strike.

“Drivers found operating in violation of the directives will face sanctions under its internal disciplinary measures,” the notice stated.

The union urged fleet owners, managers and affected drivers to maintain open communication and pursue constructive engagement to resolve the dispute.

As the strike continues, drivers say they want ride-hailing companies and regulatory authorities to address the conditions they consider increasingly difficult to sustain, warning that their livelihoods remain at stake.