The city’s ride-hailing sector is facing a major shakeup as app-based drivers threaten to abandon global platforms like Uber, Bolt, and inDrive in favor of local alternatives, unless their longstanding demands for better working conditions and fairer compensation are met. The warning comes from the Amalgamated Union of App-Based Transporters of Nigeria (AUATON), which represents thousands of drivers across Lagos. According to Steven Iwindoye, the union’s Public Relations Officer, drivers are demanding a reduction in commission rates to 5%, improved safety measures for both drivers and passengers, fair compensation, and full recognition of their rights and welfare. “If these companies fail to comply, we will move en masse to indigenous app firms willing to meet our demands. Three such apps are already operational. Additionally, our community is developing its own platform to end exploitation and modern-day slavery,” Iwindoye stated. The union’s frustration has been fueled by what drivers describe as exploitative practices, including high commission rates-often as much as 25-30%-sudden and unjust deactivations, unsafe working conditions, and a lack of proper rider identification and security measures. On May 1, 2025, drivers staged a 24-hour boycott of the major ride-hailing apps, coinciding with International Workers’ Day. The protest, which saw hundreds of drivers refusing to accept rides, was designed to send a strong message to the companies and the government about the urgent need for reforms. “The May Day shutdown marks the beginning of a new phase of organized resistance within our industry,” Iwindoye said, adding that the union has already submitted petitions to the National Assembly and plans to petition the Lagos State House of Assembly and other relevant authorities. The drivers’ union has also criticized the platforms for prioritizing profits over the well-being and dignity of drivers, and for implementing policies such as mandatory facial recognition and abrupt deactivation without due process.All eyes are on the ride-hailing companies to see whether they will negotiate with the union or risk losing a large portion of their workforce to local competitors.