E-hailing drivers in Lagos State have begun an indefinite strike over fares, platform commissions, deductions and welfare, with their union asking fleet owners to suspend daily remittance demands during the action.
The action, called by the Amalgamated Union of App-Based Transporters of Nigeria, AUATON, began on Monday, October 12. The union said it would continue until further notice or satisfactory progress in resolving its grievances.
The union, an affiliate of the Nigeria Labour Congress, said unresolved operating policies were affecting drivers’ earnings, working conditions, safety and the sustainability of their work. Its notice was signed by Lagos State chairman Jaiyesimi Olalabi Azeez, also known as Makavelli.
AUATON appealed to fleet owners and managers to give drivers temporary relief from daily payments and related operating targets. It said drivers taking part would not earn their normal revenue, from which those obligations would ordinarily be paid.
The union also asked fleet partners not to impose penalties or other sanctions solely because a driver participated in the strike.
AUATON said it would deploy its task force across Lagos local government areas to monitor compliance. Drivers who continued operating against the directive could face disciplinary measures under the union’s internal rules, it warned.
The union argued that better earnings and welfare could help drivers maintain their vehicles and reduce disputes with fleet partners. It urged drivers, fleet owners and managers to keep communication open and seek a resolution through peaceful discussions.
Sources: Punch, Daily Post
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