Technext’s podcast series, Tech Bytes, had its fourth episode themed in line with Workers Day and discussed the sacrifices of workers and how to improve systems to annihilate current challenges.
In this new episode titled, Labour week: the right of workers in a changing corporate system – the case of app-based drivers, the hosts started with conversations on trending issues for the week, including Elon Musk’s fundraising for the Twitter buyout, the proposed price hike in call, data tariffs, AirBnB’s 70% increase in revenue, and the NCC 5G rollout date.
The episode included a guest feature from the President of the National Union of App-based Professional Drivers, Ayoade Ibrahim, to discuss issues bothering drivers of app-based platforms in the country.
Titbits of the main conversation on in-app workers
The main conversation focused on the working conditions and relationship between app-based drivers and app-based mobility companies.
Joining the conversation through a call, the President of the app-based drivers union, Ayoade Ibrahim said the signed partnership between the drivers and the ride-hailing companies has resulted in a ‘parasitic’ relationship.
Ibrahim mentioned that problems confronting the drivers included the self-centredness of these companies, rather than promoting a safe and healthy industry where everyone benefits.
He also cited the promotional healthcare plan for drivers that was a major concern weeks ago.
The companies do not care to know their part of the stories when accusations come up against them. Instead, they deactivate or suspend the driver’s account immediately without a fair hearing.
Ayoade Ibrahim
On questions bothering the benefits of surge prices, Ibrahim says:
They increase the price and increase the commission we have to pay as a service charge. The price disparities are not even communicated to us, as riders are told to pay a certain amount that carries the increment, and we are given a price that reflects no increase.
Ayoade Ibrahim – President, National Association of in-app drivers
He added that they have to deal individually with issues like police harassment and accidents without support from these companies.
Listen here.
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