- Odibo Victory
The Amalgamated Union of App-Based Transporters of Nigeria (AUATON) has condemned Uber’s abrupt withdrawal from Nigeria, describing the decision as unprofessional and disrespectful to drivers.
The National Spokesperson of the union, Mr Jossy Adaraniwon, alleged that Uber ended its operations without giving its drivers adequate prior notice.
Adaraniwon, in a statement issued on Wednesday, said the company’s departure was irresponsible and showed disregard for the thousands of Nigerian drivers who contributed to building its platform in the country.
He attributed Uber’s exit to what AUATON described as an exploitative business model that failed to respect workers’ rights and collective bargaining.
According to him, Bolt and InDrive later adopted similar approaches, creating what he termed a “race-to-the-bottom” within Nigeria’s ride-hailing industry.
Adaraniwon said the development had contributed to longer passenger waiting times, reduced earnings for drivers and a decline in the number of active drivers due to unfavourable working conditions.
He cautioned Bolt and InDrive against following the same path, calling on the platforms to establish meaningful collective bargaining arrangements with AUATON.
“If you continue to operate without creating a genuine atmosphere for collective bargaining with AUATON, you will suffer the same fate,” he said.
The spokesperson maintained that AUATON should be recognised as the sole bargaining representative of app-based transporters in Nigeria.
He also called for improved remuneration, welfare provisions, transparency, safety measures and decent working conditions that meet International Labour Organisation standards.
Adaraniwon urged AUATON members across the country to remain united despite Uber’s departure and support ride-hailing platforms that are prepared to enter into collective agreements with the union.
“To Bolt and InDrive: The door for dialogue is open. But time is running out,” he said.
The AUATON spokesperson further alleged that Uber had acted against the union and Nigerian drivers, including petitioning the Federal Ministry of Labour over AUATON’s registration.
He also accused the company of sponsoring some individuals within AUATON to create internal divisions and undermine efforts to engage the platform on issues concerning drivers’ welfare.
Adaraniwon said the union would not accept a situation where foreign ride-hailing companies operate in Nigeria, exploit local drivers and subsequently leave without being held accountable.
NPO Reported that Uber announced on Wednesday that it would discontinue its ride-hailing operations in Nigeria.