The Amalgamated Union of App-Based Transporters of Nigeria (AUATON), Lagos State Council, has condemned the low fares imposed by ride-hailing companies like Indrive, Rida, and Uber, calling them unfair and insensitive.
In a statement issued on Tuesday in Lagos, AUATON’s Lagos State Public Relations Officer, Mr. Steven Iwindoye, urged these companies to raise fares to reflect the current economic challenges. He criticized the practice of drastically reducing fares, citing an example where a ₦5,000 trip is cut to ₦2,000 at the rider’s discretion, which he called disrespectful to the profession.
Iwindoye stressed the need for a minimum fare standard to prevent exploitative pricing and warned that the ongoing fare cuts and poor treatment of drivers have pushed many to their limits.
He pointed out that drivers are responsible for owning, maintaining, and fueling their vehicles, and should not have fares set at unreasonable levels without consultation. With the rising costs of fuel, spare parts, and other essentials, he argued that fare adjustments are necessary.
Iwindoye called for unity among drivers, urging them to boycott any app-based company that refuses to address their concerns. He encouraged all drivers, regardless of union affiliation, to join the upcoming protest and take part in a boycott against Indrive, Rida, and Uber.