By CHIAZO OGBOLU

The Amalgamated Union of App-Based Transporters of Nigeria (AUATON), Lagos State Council, has urged ride-hailing service providers to adjust fares in favour of drivers to reflect the present economic realities.

The Lagos State Public Relations Officer of AUATON, Mr Steven Iwindoye, made the appeal in a statement on Tuesday in Lagos.

Iwindoye described as unfair and insensitive to drivers’ plight, low fares imposed by the app-based companies such as Indrive, Rida and Uber.

“They are drastically undevaluing our services.

“For instance, when a trip that should rightfully cost N5,000 is reduced to N2,000 at the rider’s discretion, it is an insult to our profession and must not be tolerated.

“There should be a minimum fare benchmark for riders to negotiate within, rather than the current situation where fares are slashed to exploitative levels.

“The continuous price slashes and unfair treatment of drivers by ride-hailing companies have pushed drivers to a breaking point,” he said.

He said that cars for the transport were owned, managed and fuelled by the drivers, adding that the companies had no right to reduce fares to unreasonable levels without consulting the drivers.

“The cost of living has skyrocketed – cost of fuel, spare parts, vehicle maintenance, rent, food are high; weekly remittances to partners, school fees and even tyre replacements have gone up.

“It is only logical for drivers to expect an upward fare review.

“The only viable solution is for all drivers to unite, take a stand, and boycott any app-based company that refuses to listen to our grievances.

“We, therefore, call on all drivers, regardless of union affiliation, to participate in the upcoming protest and join the massive boycott against Indrive, Rida, and Uber,” he said. (NAN)