E-hailing drivers, represented by the Amalgamated Union of App-based Transport Workers Union (AUATWON), have announced their intention to boycott ride-hailing apps such as Uber and Bolt starting August 2.
The decision is in solidarity with the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC), the country-organized labor body, with whom AUATWON is affiliated.
The NLC is set to embark on an indefinite strike to protest against the hardships and anti-poor policies of the
Federal Government led by President Bola Tinubu.
Comrade Ibrahim Ayoade, the General Secretary of AUATWON, confirmed that the drivers will join the NLC strike and planned protest. During the strike, drivers will abandon the e-hailing apps in support of the labor action.
A major grievance raised by AUATWON is the reluctance of app companies, including Uber and Bolt, to increase fares or consider commission cuts that would allow drivers to earn better wages.
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REASON FOR THE NLC STRIKE
The unyielding stance of these companies, coupled with the burden of high fuel prices, has put drivers in a difficult financial situation.
Comrade Ayoade expressed frustration over the lack of fare increases and even reductions despite rising fuel costs. Many drivers have had to park their vehicles, while others have been forced to sell their cars due to financial strains.
The planned NLC strike aims to protest the fuel subsidy removal implemented by the government. The NLC accuses the Tinubu-led government of disregarding the welfare of Nigerians and calls for the immediate reversal of anti-poor policies
Congress demands that the government address the issues of fuel subsidy and take steps to improve the domestic fuel consumption situation, such as fixing refineries.
The AUATWON, one of the affiliated trade unions of the NLC, has been severely affected by the fuel subsidy removal regime. In the past, they embarked on a week-long strike in response to the first fuel price hike.
With another hike in July, many drivers and fleet owners are finding it difficult to sustain their e-hailing businesses.
The NLC strike provides an opportunity for e-hailing drivers to voice their frustrations and advocate for better working conditions in the industry.
CONCLUSION
Comrade Ayoade affirmed their commitment to fight until the e-hailing industry becomes profitable for all stakeholders.
As the NLC mobilizes its affiliated trade unions for the nationwide strike, the e-hailing drivers boycott could add further pressure on the government and ride-hailing companies to address the concerns of the drivers and the Nigerian labor force.
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