E-hailing drivers in Ibadan have taken a stand against Bolt by declaring a five-day strike to protest the exorbitant fare hike, which they argue does not align with the current economic situation in Nigeria.
In a statement obtained by Technext, the drivers expressed their dissatisfaction with Bolt’s recent fare increase of just 15% in Ibadan, in contrast to the substantial 112% adjustment implemented in Lagos.
They argued that the removal of fuel subsidies had caused fuel pump prices to surge by over 150% nationwide, leading to increased costs and diminished profits for drivers.
Transportation Disruption in Ibadan
With e-hailing drivers going on strike, transportation services will be significantly disrupted across the city of Ibadan. Commuters who heavily rely on e-hailing platforms such as Bolt and Uber will face challenges in finding convenient and affordable rides. This could result in increased demand for traditional taxi services, which may struggle to meet the sudden surge. Additionally, commuters might seek alternative modes of transportation, such as public buses or private vehicles, potentially leading to increased traffic congestion.
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Impact on Rival E-hailing Companies
The strike presents both challenges and opportunities for rival e-hailing companies operating in Ibadan. On one hand, these companies might experience a surge in demand as disgruntled e-hailing drivers switch to their platforms during the strike. This could provide an opportunity for competitors to expand their user base and gain a competitive edge by offering attractive incentives to both drivers and riders. On the other hand, if the strike leads to increased public dissatisfaction with e-hailing services as a whole, it may dampen trust and confidence in the industry, affecting all players, including
rival companies.
Opportunities for Upcoming E-hailing Companies
The strike in Ibadan also opens up possibilities for new entrants or local startups in the e-hailing industry. With the existing drivers dissatisfied and seeking better working conditions, these upcoming companies have an opportunity to attract drivers by offering more favorable terms, fair pricing structures, and improved benefits.
By capitalizing on the grievances expressed by the striking drivers and addressing their concerns, new players can build a positive reputation and gain a loyal driver base. Moreover, they can differentiate themselves by focusing on providing a better experience for both drivers and riders, thereby capturing a significant market share in Ibadan.
Overall, the e-hailing drivers’ strike in Ibadan is likely to disrupt transportation services, impact rival e-hailing companies, and create opportunities for new entrants. As the strike unfolds, it will be interesting to observe how the industry dynamics evolve and whether it leads to long-term changes in the e-hailing landscape of Ibadan.
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