Osamagbe Imadiyi
The Amalgamated Union of App-Based Transporters of Nigeria (AUATON), Lagos State Chapter, is planning a 24-hour protest on May 1 in response to alleged anti-labor practices by app-based companies such as Uber, Bolt, and inDrive. AUATON Public Relations Officer Steven Iwindoye signed a statement on Tuesday stating that members would be refusing to work, staying off the apps, and demanding that their rights be upheld.
Iwindoye claims that the union is demonstrating against alleged insecurity, unsafe working conditions, unfair deactivations, and low pay. Other issues include mandatory facial recognition systems, improper rider profiles, excessive commissions collected by app companies, and exploitative and damaging work practices. He claimed that the union’s rights had been violated and its concerns disregarded by app-based businesses such as Uber, Bolt, Lagride, inDrive, and Rida.
“We have attempted dialogue, but it has failed; these businesses only speak one language, which is the language of financial pressure.Our decision to shut down our services is a strong statement that we will not be disregarded or treated disrespectfully. We will be following up with specific demands and a well-organized negotiation strategy following the shutdown. “To spread our message and increase support for our cause, we will be collaborating with media outlets, labor organizations, and other stakeholders,” Iwindoye stated.
As a result, the PRO demanded a coordinated worldwide response to the difficulties encountered by app-based transporters. He claimed that the companies had continuously put their profits ahead of the welfare of AUATON members, despite the union’s attempts to have a conversation.
