The Amalgamated Union of App-based Transport Workers of Nigeria, representing drivers from these e-hailing platforms, announced their plan to withdraw services from the general public today.
The drivers expressed discontent with the minimal fare increase implemented by the ride-hailing companies following the recent surge in the price of Premium Motor Spirit.
According to the union’s statement, the app-based firms’ fare increase ranged from 25 to 30 percent, falling far short of the union’s demands for a 200 percent increase and a 50 percent reduction in commission.
The drivers, finding the current conditions unsustainable, had previously appealed to the companies to lower their commissions, arguing that they were not in line with industry standards. They called upon all app-based workers in the country to join the fight until their grievances were addressed.
In their statement, the union emphasized their technical understanding of ride-hailing operations and calculations. They asserted that any app company could break even by charging below five percent commission.
The union recommended a flat commission rate of 10 percent or a 50 percent reduction from the current commission, stating that this would help cover maintenance costs, spare parts, overhead expenses, and the rising fuel prices.
Highlighting their efforts to engage in dialogue, the union expressed disappointment with the companies’ refusal to take responsibility and engage in a roundtable discussion.
They denounced any dictatorial practices and lack of concern for the welfare and security of app-based transport workers.
Consequently, the union instructed all its members nationwide to cease providing services on ride-hailing applications starting from Wednesday, June 7, 2023, as a form of protest against these practices.
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