The Amalgamated Union of App-Based Transporters of Nigeria, Lagos State chapter, has declared a three-day strike beginning Sunday.

The action is in protest against poor working conditions and unsustainable fares on ride-hailing platforms.

The union’s Public Relations Officer, Mr Steven Iwindoye, announced the strike during a news conference in Lagos on Sunday.

App-based drivers have expressed deep concerns about mounting economic pressures affecting their operations on platforms including Bolt, Uber, inDrive, and Lagride.

“Drivers operating on platforms such as Uber, Bolt, inDrive, and Lagride face rising operational costs, including high fuel prices, vehicle maintenance, inflation, and daily living expenses.

“Unfortunately, fare structures and policies of these companies have not been adjusted to reflect these economic realities. Thousands of drivers now struggle to earn a sustainable income despite working long hours,” Iwindoye said.

He described the industrial action as a critical step to press for urgent reforms across the app-based transport sector.

“During the strike, drivers across Lagos will log off from all ride-hailing platforms, including Uber, Bolt, inDrive, and Lagride. This action is not intended to punish commuters but to seek fair treatment, economic sustainability, and safety protections for drivers who provide essential transportation services,” he added.

Iwindoye stated that the union had already submitted a list of 10 key demands to the ride-hailing companies and relevant government authorities.

The demands include an immediate fare review to align with current costs of fuel, vehicle maintenance, and inflation.

They also cover a reduction in commission percentages charged by ride-hailing firms to guarantee sustainable earnings for drivers.

Other demands are the establishment of a regulated minimum base fare to eliminate extremely low-paying trips and stronger rider verification processes.

The union is further calling for functional emergency panic buttons and rapid real-time response systems to safeguard drivers from security risks.

Additional requests include the provision of comprehensive accident, health, and life insurance coverage for drivers while they are active on the platforms.

Iwindoye explained that the union will assess responses from the ride-hailing companies and government authorities at the conclusion of the three-day strike.

He said the outcome of that review will decide whether the strike is called off or prolonged indefinitely.

The union official apologised to Lagos residents for any inconvenience the action may cause, saying, ‘the union remains open to dialogue.’

He urged the Lagos State government, relevant regulatory bodies, and the management of ride-hailing companies to engage urgently with driver representatives to address the grievances.