Ride-hailing drivers demand 200% increase over fuel hike
By Joseph Ekeng
Ride-hailing drivers in Nigeria are standing up for their livelihoods, demanding a substantial increase in prices from app-based transport companies such as Uber, Bolt, Lagride, Indriver, and others. Under the banner of the Amalgamated Union of App-Based Transport Workers of Nigeria (AUATWON), the drivers have voiced their concerns about the negative impact of soaring fuel prices on their earnings and patronage.
The union’s National President, Mr. Adedamola Adeniran, issued a statement on Friday, emphasizing the urgent need for a 200% price hike across all platforms.
Unlike independent cab drivers, branded taxi drivers, and bus drivers, app-based drivers lack the autonomy to unilaterally adjust their fares. Adeniran appealed to the companies, urging them not to deactivate any drivers due to the removal of fuel subsidies. Furthermore, the drivers empathized with the riders who would bear the brunt of the price increase, suggesting that ride-hailing companies introduce a 5% subsidy to alleviate the impact on passengers.
In addition to the price hike, the drivers are also calling for a reduction in the commission charged by companies like Bolt, Uber, and others. Adeniran emphasized the need for these app-based firms to establish a flat rate commission of 10% or decrease it by 50% without any hidden charges. He argued that the current uniform commission structure has made their business unprofitable and called on the companies to utilize the commission savings to subsidize trip fares for riders by at least 5%.
Jossy Olawale, Chairman of the Media and Publicity Committee of the union, implored the app companies to promptly address and act upon the union’s demands. He encouraged union members to continue their peaceful business operations while utilizing legal and profitable means until further directives are issued.
The drivers’ demands arise following President Bola Tinubu’s announcement on May 29 that fuel subsidies were abolished. Since then, several filling stations have raised their prices. In response to the absence of government subsidies, the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) announced price adjustments on Wednesday, leading to fuel prices ranging from N448 to N550 per liter nationwide. The transportation sector has been the first to feel the immediate impact, with a sudden surge in transport fares expected to affect various sectors of the economy.
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