Business
Lagos Bolt Drivers Plan Protest Over Fare Slash
By Benjamin Abioye
Commercial drivers under the banner of the Lagos chapter of the Amalgamated Union of App-Based Transporters of Nigeria (AUATON) have announced plans for a mass protest in response to Bolt’s recent decision to cut fares by 50%.
The Lagos Bolt drivers say the drastic reduction is unfair to drivers and could make it even harder for them to earn a living.
Speaking on behalf of AUATON, Mr. Steven Iwindoye, the union’s Public Relations Officer, expressed deep concern over the price slash, stating that drivers were already struggling financially.
“This drastic reduction in earnings has severe negative impacts on all AUATON members, who are already struggling to make ends meet,” he said.
Iwindoye further criticized ride-hailing platforms like Bolt, Uber, Indrive, and Rida, accusing them of continuously slashing fares without considering the impact on drivers. He noted that such practices have pushed many drivers to their limits.
“The constant price slashes and unfair treatment of drivers by ride-hailing companies like Bolt, Uber, Indrive, and Rida have led to a breaking point. The only solution is for drivers to come together and take a stand,” he added.
The union has warned that if Bolt does not reverse the fare cut, a large-scale protest will take place across Lagos. Drivers from all unions and backgrounds are being urged to participate.
“We call on all drivers, regardless of union affiliation, to participate in the upcoming protest. We cannot afford to have drivers undermining the effort by continuing to work and accepting the unfair conditions. The protest’s success relies on the unity and solidarity of all drivers,” Iwindoye emphasized.
He pointed out that one of the biggest challenges in the industry has been the reluctance of some drivers to take action. While some choose to remain passive, others actively resist collective efforts to improve working conditions.
“This protest is an opportunity for drivers to put aside their differences and work towards a common goal,” he said.
While the exact date of the protest is yet to be announced, the union is urging drivers to start making their voices heard by directly expressing their dissatisfaction to Bolt.
“Writing to Bolt and registering our displeasure with the 50 per cent price slash is a crucial step. This will demonstrate our collective dissatisfaction and prepare the ground for the upcoming protest,” Iwindoye advised.
He called on drivers to stand together and take bold steps to demand fair treatment from ride-hailing companies. According to him, only through unity and determination can they bring about real change.
“We urge all AUATON members and drivers to unite and demand fair treatment from ride-hailing companies. Together, we can bring about the change we deserve,” he said on behalf of the Lagos Bolt drivers.
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