…vows to shut down hailing apps
Nigerian e-hailing drivers union, the Amalgamated Union of App-based Transport Workers of Nigeria (AUATWON), has confirmed that its planned strike, scheduled to commence tomorrow, Wednesday June 7, will proceed as planned. This was contained in a communique titled: AUATWON Rejects Low Fares, Directs Workers to Shutdown App Services from Wednesday and made available by the General Secretary of the union, Comrade Ibrahim Ayoade.
This is coming after the National Industrial Court restrained the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) of Nigeria from engaging in a strike to protest the removal of fuel subsidy by the Nigerian government. The e-Hailing drivers’ union which is also affiliated to the NLC, however says its members remain resolute in their decision.
The letter from AUATWON acknowledges that the Federal Government of Nigeria has engaged in discussions with the Nigeria Labour Congress in an attempt to resolve the matter of fuel subsidy removal and provide opportunities for labor to negotiate on behalf of the workers. However, the union claims app companies have steadfastly refused to create an avenue for negotiation with the drivers, leading to the continuation of the planned industrial action.
App companies are not bigger than government. if our government despite their strength can negotiate and have documented agreements with NLC and TUC, why will App companies remain in their dictatorial attitude It’s time we negotiate with them and have documented agreements away from the terms and conditions they are changing every day without our input.
AUATWON
The primary catalyst for the strike initially was the removal of fuel subsidies and subsequent price hikes. Regrettably, fuel prices remain at an elevated level, making it increasingly difficult for e-Hailing workers to sustain their livelihoods. The NLC which was supposed to have their backing has reached a concluding decision with the government and has suspended the notice of strike forthwith to enable further consultations.
In order to address their concerns, the drivers are demanding a minimum of 200% increase in fares, a 50% reduction in commission charges, stop the unlawful deactivation of drivers who refused to work due to the low fare and attendant unprofitability, and the recognition of AUATWON as the representative body for their interests.
Calling on e-hailing drivers to join the strike, the letter also stated that:
“We are using this opportunity to call on the fleet managers, driver-partners and app-based transport workers across Nigeria to support this strike fully and understand that our services must be withdrawn during this protest and a moratorium or waiver should be given to all drivers on rentals or hire purchase. This is a solidarity step we must take together to protect our investments as fleet managers, secure our business as workers, and secure our jobs as app drivers. We are confident this will give us a better and profitable industry.
The demands of AUATWON; e-hailing drivers in Nigeria amidst strike actions
The Amalgamated Union of App-Based Transport Workers of Nigeria (AUATWON) is a registered trade union and an affiliate of the Nigeria Labor Congress (NLC). Its primary objective is to protect the job security, business interests, and investments of workers in the e-hailing industry.
As the voice for e-hailing drivers, delivery or courier riders, and all online transport workers in Nigeria, AUATWON plays a crucial role in advocating for their adequate welfare. However, following the recent developments that occurred after the swearing-in of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the removal of fuel subsidies and a significant increase in petrol prices, coupled with existing 25% commission charges, have rendered the business unprofitable.
In the face of these challenges, AUATWON has taken it upon itself to fight for the rights and demands of app-based transport workers.
We are using this opportunity to call on the fleet managers, driver-partners, and app-based transport workers across Nigeria to support this strike fully and understand, that our service(s) must be withdrawn during this protest, and a moratorium or waiver should be given to all drivers on rentals or higher purchase. This is a solidarity step we must take together to protect our investment as fleet managers, secure our business as workers and secure our jobs as App Drivers. We are confident this will give us a better and more profitable industry that will encourage every stakeholder.
Some of these demands are:
- Increase fare by 200%
- Reduction of commission by 50%
- Stop unlawful deactivation of drivers.
- Open collective bargaining with AUATWON
Read Also: Ibadan e-hailing drivers reject Bolt fare increase, to embark on 5-day strike
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