RismadarVoice Reporters
October 12, 2026
E-hailing drivers operating on platforms including Bolt and inDrive have announced an indefinite strike in Lagos State over concerns about earnings, welfare, security and working conditions.
The industrial action, announced by the Amalgamated Union of App-Based Transporters of Nigeria (AUATON), was scheduled to begin on Monday, October 12, and continue until the union’s grievances are adequately addressed.
AUATON, an affiliate of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), said the decision followed repeated attempts to draw attention to challenges affecting drivers without satisfactory resolutions.
The union identified operational policies, declining earnings, safety concerns and the rising cost of maintaining vehicles among the issues threatening the sustainability of app-based transportation.
According to the union, the strike is intended to secure improved working conditions and encourage meaningful engagement between drivers, fleet operators and other industry stakeholders.
Ahead of the action, AUATON appealed to vehicle owners and fleet managers to temporarily suspend daily remittance obligations and operational targets for participating drivers.
It explained that drivers who suspend operations would be unable to generate their usual income and should not be penalised for failing to meet payment obligations during the strike.
The union also urged fleet partners to avoid imposing sanctions or other punitive measures solely because drivers participate in the industrial action.
AUATON disclosed that its task force would monitor compliance across Lagos State’s local government areas, warning that members who disregard the strike directive could face disciplinary measures under the union’s internal rules.
However, the union encouraged drivers, fleet owners and managers to maintain communication and resolve disagreements peacefully.
It argued that improved earnings and working conditions would benefit the wider transportation sector by reducing driver turnover, supporting vehicle maintenance and strengthening relationships between drivers and fleet operators.
The union maintained that its objective was to address longstanding concerns rather than unnecessarily disrupt transportation businesses.
The strike notice was signed by AUATON Lagos State Chairman, Jaiyesimi Olalabi Azeez, popularly known as Makavelli.
He appealed for cooperation from fleet partners and reaffirmed the union’s willingness to engage relevant stakeholders in finding lasting solutions.
The announcement raises the possibility of disruptions to app-based transportation services across Lagos, although the extent of drivers’ participation and the impact on passengers have not been independently established.
As of the union’s announcement, no resolution had been reported, and responses from the affected ride-hailing companies were not included in the statement.
