Drivers under the Lagos government-backed ride-hailing platform, LagRide, are threatening to boycott operations and stage protests following accusations of misconduct and alleged harassment by the platform’s management. The dispute highlights growing tensions between drivers and the new operators, CIG Motors Co. Ltd, barely a month after they assumed control of the service.
The Amalgamated Union of App-Based Transporters of Nigeria (AUATON), representing the drivers, revealed that frustrations stem from several operational challenges:
App Issues: The new LagRide app, introduced by CIG Motors, has been criticized for being user-unfriendly, draining phone batteries, and complicating trip navigation.
Cash Payment Ban: Drivers claim LagRide disabled the in-app cash payment option to enforce weekly remittance of earnings, which they find unfavorable.
High Levies: Drivers report multiple charges for insurance, communication devices, dashcams, and phones without support for vehicle maintenance or repairs.
LagRide management accuses drivers of violating policies by:
Discouraging riders from using the LagRide app while promoting rival platforms like Bolt and InDrive.
Refusing trips without valid reasons and accepting cash payments instead of processing fares through the app.
In response to these violations, LagRide warned of strict disciplinary measures, including arrests by Lagos State Task Force officials, vehicle impoundment, and legal actions.
AUATON’s Public Relations Officer, Steven Iwindoye, criticized management’s threats as escalating tensions rather than addressing systemic issues. He warned that unresolved concerns could lead to protests at the Lagos State Secretariat in Alausa and a complete shutdown of LagRide operations.
LagRide was initially managed through a partnership between Lagos State Government and Zenolynk Technology Ltd. After Zenolynk exited in March 2025, CIG Motors, a Chinese state-owned automaker, took over operations. Despite promises of modernization with electric vehicles and improved services, drivers argue that operational inefficiencies have led to income losses and frustration.
Drivers plan to take their grievances directly to the Lagos State Government to demand urgent intervention. AUATON has warned that failure to address their concerns could result in widespread protests and service disruptions.
