Drivers Strike Ride-Hail Platforms Over Exploitation, Demand Fair Pay and Safety

Edo AUATON, the Amalgamated Union of App-Based Transporters of Nigeria, has accused Bolt, a major ride-hailing platform, of unilaterally blocking hundreds of drivers in Edo State without providing fair hearings or transparency. The union alleges that the platform's high commission rates-ranging from 21.5% to 25%-combined with arbitrary fare adjustments and lack of security, have exacerbated financial strain on drivers. Protests erupted in Benin City on July 29, 2025, with drivers demanding equitable pricing, reduced commissions, and better safety measures. Russell Eghaghe, Edo State Chapter Chairman of AUATON, criticized Bolt and other platforms for "exploitative" practices, stating that fare reductions and price caps imposed by companies like inDrive and Bolt have eroded drivers' already precarious earnings.

The union highlighted that drivers face rising operational costs, including fuel, vehicle maintenance, and data expenses, which have surged by 50% since 2023. Eghaghe noted that drivers are often unaware of fare changes or commission hikes, leaving them unable to negotiate fair earnings. "When they increase their percentage, they don't notify the driver. When they reduce the price for customers, they don't notify us either," one protestor said, emphasizing the lack of communication. Security concerns were also raised, with drivers reporting kidnappings, robberies, and attacks despite high commissions. "These companies are getting richer while we suffer," a protest leader added.

AUATON has declared a national strike scheduled for May 1, 2025, to escalate pressure on Bolt, Uber, and other platforms. The union has called for a 24-hour shutdown of ride-hailing apps, urging drivers to disable their apps during peak hours. Steven Iwindoye, AUATON's Public Relations Officer, stated that the strike aims to address "decades of exploitation and corporate arrogance" by platforms that classify drivers as independent contractors. The union is also demanding regulatory intervention to ensure fair wages, transparency in pricing algorithms, and accountability for driver safety.

The protests reflect broader unrest among gig economy workers in Nigeria, where platforms have been criticized for opaque commission structures and lack of labor protections. A LinkedIn analysis noted that drivers, despite being labeled as "partners," operate under unstable income and high costs, with some earning as little as N3,200 per trip after commissions. The union's demands align with global labor movements, such as the UK's Uber BV v Aslam ruling and Spain's "Riders' Law," which mandate minimum wage and employee protections for gig workers.

Bolt and other platforms have not publicly responded to the allegations, but the union warns of further disruptions if demands are unmet. "Compliance won't be a problem," Eghaghe said, emphasizing strong support from the driver community. The situation underscores the growing tension between gig economy platforms and workers in Nigeria, where regulatory frameworks remain underdeveloped. As AUATON prepares for its May 1 strike, the outcome could influence broader labor reforms in the digital economy.