Lagos E-Hailing Drivers Set for October Showdown as AUATON Threatens Bolt, inDrive Shutdown

Lagos e-hailing drivers are preparing for a major showdown with Bolt and inDrive as the Amalgamated Union of App-based Transporters of Nigeria (AUATON) announces plans for a mega protest in October.

The union says drivers may shut down operations across Lagos to demand better fares, lower commissions and improved welfare.

According to AUATON, the current e-hailing business model is becoming increasingly difficult for drivers to survive.

Fuel prices are rising. Vehicle repairs and maintenance are getting more expensive. Insurance, data, government levies, car financing and daily remittance payments are also taking a major chunk of drivers' earnings.

Yet, drivers say the fares they receive have not kept pace with the rising cost of running their cars.

What Are Drivers Demanding?

At the centre of the planned protest are two major demands: higher fares and lower platform commissions.

AUATON wants Bolt and inDrive to review their fare structures based on the actual cost of operating a vehicle.

The union is also demanding that commissions be reduced to 10% or less, subject to negotiations.

Drivers also want more transparency from the platforms.

They want to clearly see how every trip is calculated including the passenger's fare, platform commission, discounts, deductions, distance and duration.

It's Not Just About Money

AUATON is also demanding better welfare and safety measures for drivers.

The union wants programmes covering health insurance, accident support and emergency assistance.

It is also calling for stronger rider verification, including consideration of NIN-linked identity checks, to help tackle cases of robbery, assault, impersonation and fraud.

Nigerian Mobility Platforms Could Benefit

There is another interesting part of the plan.

AUATON says it may work with credible Nigerian mobility companies to provide alternative opportunities for drivers during the planned shutdown.

But the union says simply being a Nigerian-owned platform will not be enough.

Any platform considered must provide transparent payments, sustainable commissions, safety measures, welfare support and meaningful value for drivers.

Will Bolt and inDrive Respond?

AUATON says it is still open to discussions with Bolt and inDrive and does not want the protest to be seen simply as an attempt to disrupt business.

The union says what drivers want are measurable changes to fares, commissions, transparency and welfare.

For thousands of e-hailing drivers who depend on these platforms every day, the issue comes down to one simple question:

Can drivers continue to make a living if the cost of running their cars keeps rising while their earnings remain the same?

October could provide the answer.