Lagos e-hailing drivers decry unfair treatment, demand reforms
Aggrieved drivers under the Lagos State ride-hailing scheme, LagRide, have raised concerns over what they describe as financial exploitation and intimidation by vested interests within the initiative.
In a statement obtained by PUNCH Metro on Thursday and signed by the spokesperson for the Amalgamated Union of App-Based Transport Operators of Nigeria, Steven Iwindoye, the drivers lamented that the scheme’s original intent which sought to empower individuals and promote self-employment, had been compromised.
The union further stated that hidden interests, allegedly unknown to the governor, had turned LagRide into a source of hardship for many captains, who have faced systemic failures that negatively impact their ability to work and earn a sustainable income.
They highlighted some of their complaints as including frequent app malfunctions and operational challenges, delayed payment, lack of financial transparency as well as unfair disciplinary action.
“It is deeply concerning that the original vision of this initiative has been undermined by certain vested interests. These interests, seemingly unknown to His Excellency, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, have turned LagRide into a tool for harassment, intimidation, and financial exploitation, keeping many hardworking captains trapped in economic hardship.
“As representatives of AUATON, we stand united today to give voice to the frustrations and hardships experienced by LagRide captains, who have waited patiently for a resolution to these issues.”
However, the union called on LagRide’s management to take immediate steps to fix the pressing issues. They demanded that the app’s technical glitches be resolved to ensure seamless operations and also insisted on prompt and consistent earnings disbursement so captains could meet their financial responsibilities.
The union further called for financial transparency, urging LagRide to provide clear and accurate records that prevent misunderstandings, while also advocating for a fair and transparent grievance resolution process to stop arbitrary disciplinary measures that have negatively affected captains’ livelihoods.
“We demand fair and supportive treatment, Implementation of a fair and transparent grievance resolution process and cessation of arbitrary disciplinary measures.
“We must be treated with the dignity and respect we deserve as essential contributors to the platform’s success. Clarity on exit plan, for captains that have used more than two years to clear their balance and own the vehicle which is the original plan of the scheme as the drive to own,” the union.
While it warned of a possible protest and suspension of their activities if the demands were not met, AUATON also demanded that any directives issued to law enforcement agencies, including the Nigeria Police Force and task force units, to harass, arrest, or impound their vehicles be revoked immediately.
“We call on the general public, regulatory bodies, and all relevant stakeholders to support our demand for better working conditions, fairness, and transparency from LagRide’s management. The LagRide captains form the backbone of the platform’s operations. Ensuring their welfare, fairness, and dignity is not just a matter of justice but also a strategic necessity for the long-term success of LagRide. We remain committed to advocating for our rights and will not rest until meaningful change is achieved,” the statement concluded.
When contacted on the telephone on Thursday, the Executive Director of LagRide, Niyi Saliu, said he was in a meeting and would revert.
He had yet to do so as of the time this report was filed.
