Lagos Bolt, Uber Drivers Plan May 1 Protest

App-based transport drivers in Lagos, including those working with Bolt, Uber, and similar platforms, plan to stage a protest on May 1, 2025.

They will reject rides for 24 hours as part of a strike aimed at pushing for better working conditions. The protest is scheduled to take place on International Workers’ Day.

The Lagos branch of the Amalgamated Union of App-Based Transporters of Nigeria (AUATON) is leading the action. The union says drivers are tired of enduring poor treatment, low earnings, and unsafe work environments. They also oppose high commission rates, sudden account suspensions, and policies like facial recognition and poor rider identification that they believe put them at risk.

“The Amalgamated Union of App-Based Transporters of Nigeria (AUATON), Lagos State Chapter, is planning a 24-hour protest on May Day over alleged anti-labour practices by app-based companies, including Uber, Bolt,” said the union.

“In a statement signed by AUATON Public Relations Officer Steven Iwindoye on Tuesday, the union said members would be staying off the apps, refusing to work, and demanding that their rights be respected.”

“According to Iwindoye, the union is protesting against alleged poor wages, unjust deactivations, insecurity, and unsafe working conditions. Others are excessive commissions taken by app companies, lack of proper rider profiles, mandatory facial recognition systems, and harmful and exploitative work policies.”

The protest may lead to serious disruption in transport across Lagos. Many residents rely on ride-hailing apps for daily movement and may face delays or increased fares from other transport services.

The union claims that ride-hailing companies have ignored their complaints for too long. Attempts to hold talks with these firms have failed, and the union now hopes to force change through what it calls “economic pressure.”

According to Iwindoye, the May Day protest is meant to show the companies that drivers are united and determined to fight for their rights. After the protest, the union plans to present formal demands and begin structured negotiations, supported by media and labour groups.

The union named Bolt, Uber, Lagride, inDrive, and Rida among the companies they accuse of putting profits ahead of driver welfare. Calling the strike a “global call to action,” Iwindoye urged for solidarity and said drivers are not just individuals but a powerful collective demanding fair treatment.
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