A storm is brewing in Lagos’ ride-hailing industry. The Amalgamated Union of App-Based Transporters of Nigeria (AUATON), Lagos chapter, has declared a boycott of inDrive, accusing the platform of jeopardising drivers’ safety and exploiting them with unsustainable fare policies.
The union’s spokesperson, Steven Iwindoye, minced no words in his statement on Wednesday. He accused inDrive of failing to protect its drivers, exposing them to criminals who exploit the app’s weak verification process.
“InDrive’s failure to implement a robust security system has cost many drivers their lives. Criminals can easily access the platform by posing as passengers and attacking unsuspecting drivers,” he said.
AUATON claims that a number of drivers have been robbed, attacked, and even killed due to inDrive’s lax security measures. According to the union, without adequate background checks for riders, drivers are left vulnerable, picking up strangers without any real assurance of safety.
Beyond security issues, drivers are also fuming over inDrive’s fare system, which allows passengers to dictate ride prices. Iwindoye argued that this model forces drivers to accept unreasonably low fares, leaving them struggling to cover basic expenses.
“Fuel costs, vehicle maintenance, and other expenses have skyrocketed, yet inDrive allows passengers to dictate fares that barely cover our costs. We are being exploited, and we refuse to continue under such a system,” he said.
Some riders reportedly slash fares by as much as 50%, making it nearly impossible for drivers to earn a decent income. AUATON is demanding immediate changes, including a structured fare system that accounts for fuel prices and vehicle upkeep, as well as better support for drivers facing financial hardship.
The union has instructed all its members to stop using inDrive, aiming to bring operations in Lagos to a standstill until their demands are met.
“We call on the government and relevant regulatory agencies to intervene and ensure that inDrive operates transparently and safely,” Iwindoye added.
The move is expected to disrupt transportation for thousands of Lagos commuters who rely on the app for daily movement.
inDrive Responds
The company’s Africa spokesperson, Lineo Thakhisi, defended the platform’s policies, arguing that its model is built on fairness and flexibility.
“Unlike traditional ride-hailing models, inDrive allows drivers to set their own fares and negotiate directly with passengers. This ensures that drivers have greater control over their earnings,” she said.
She also noted that inDrive offers the lowest commission rates in Nigeria, allowing drivers to keep more of their earnings compared to other ride-hailing services.
On security, Thakhisi assured that the company has implemented trip verification, emergency assistance options, and a rating system to improve safety.
“We continuously assess and enhance these security measures to ensure a safer experience for all users,” she said. “We are open to constructive dialogue with drivers and unions.”
With both sides holding firm, the situation is tense. AUATON insists the boycott will continue until inDrive makes considerable changes, while inDrive maintains that its system is fair and secure.
