Drivers operating under Bolt’s ride-hailing platform in Lagos have rejected the company’s recent 50% reduction in fares, describing it as unfair and unsustainable.
The Amalgamated Union of App-Based Transporters of Nigeria (AUATON), Lagos State Chapter, has threatened a protest if the decision is not reversed.
AUATON’s Lagos Public Relations Officer, Steven Iwindoye, spoke about the impact of the price cut on drivers, many of whom are already stressed by the high costs of living. “This drastic reduction in earnings has severe negative impacts on all AUATON members, who are already struggling to make ends meet,” he stated.
The union has accused Bolt, along with other ride-hailing companies like Uber, inDrive, and Rida, of continuously introducing price cuts without considering the financial burden on drivers.
Iwindoye warned that the latest fare reduction had brought drivers to a breaking point, stressing that the only way forward was collective action.
As part of their response, the union is mobilising drivers for a statewide protest. “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,” he said.
Iwindoye also criticised drivers who hesitate to take a stand or work against the collective interests of their colleagues. He urged them to use this moment to push for better conditions. “This protest is an opportunity for drivers to put aside their differences and work towards a common goal,” he added.
While the protest date is yet to be announced, AUATON is calling on drivers to immediately show their dissatisfaction by writing 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 said.
The union insists that only a united front can force ride-hailing companies to reconsider their pricing policies and ensure that drivers earn fair wages for their services.
