Lagos Drivers Boycott inDrive Over Safety Concerns and Low Fares

Lagos commuters may experience significant disruptions as the Amalgamated Union of App-Based Transporters of Nigeria (AUATON) has instructed its members to stop working with the inDrive platform. This decision stems from mounting concerns about driver safety and what the union refers to as “unfair” pricing practices.

AUATON’s spokesperson, Steven Iwindoye, revealed that the boycott was prompted by inDrive’s inadequate rider verification process, which has led to increased criminal activity targeting drivers. “The lack of a secure system has resulted in numerous attacks on drivers, with criminals posing as passengers,” Iwindoye said, adding that this has tragically led to fatalities.

In addition to safety issues, the union strongly criticizes inDrive’s fare model, where passengers can negotiate prices, often setting them much lower than what drivers deem fair. “With rising costs for fuel, car maintenance, and other expenses, drivers are forced to accept fares that barely cover their operating costs. Some passengers are even reducing fares by as much as 50%, and this is unsustainable,” Iwindoye explained. He also called out the platform for exploiting drivers and depriving them of a fair income.

The union has issued demands, including a more secure rider and driver verification system, reasonable fare structures, better support for drivers, and fairer treatment of drivers’ rights. “AUATON has instructed all its members to halt their participation with inDrive, effectively disrupting their operations in Lagos,” Iwindoye stated, calling for government intervention and regulatory oversight to address the issues.

Responding to the boycott, inDrive’s Africa Public Relations Manager, Lineo Thakhisi, defended the platform’s business model, pointing out that inDrive allows drivers to negotiate their own fares directly with passengers. “This model ensures drivers have more control over their earnings compared to traditional ride-hailing services,” she said. Thakhisi also highlighted the platform’s lower commission fees and the safety features it has implemented, such as trip verification and emergency support.

However, the union remains firm in its position, stating that inDrive must make tangible changes. “We are the backbone of their service. Without us, there is no inDrive,” Iwindoye emphasized. “We will not resume work until they address our safety, rights, and fair treatment.”

The standoff between AUATON and inDrive illustrates the ongoing challenges in regulating the rapidly growing ride-hailing industry. The situation raises important questions about balancing flexibility with safety and fair compensation for workers in the gig economy. The boycott is likely to cause disruptions in Lagos, forcing passengers to look for alternative transportation, and it remains to be seen how regulatory authorities will address the concerns raised by the drivers.