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By DESMOND EJIBAS
Ride-hailing drivers, under the aegis of the Amalgamated Union of App-Based Transporters (AUATON), have announced plan to embark on strike to demand improved working condition for app-based transport workers.
The Chairman of AUATON in Rivers, Mr Omoruyi Amos, who disclosed this to newsmen during a news conference in Port Harcourt on Thursday, said that the action would commence on May 1.
He alleged that members of the union, including Uber, Bolt, and InDrive drivers, were being exploited by the operators of the ride-hailing platforms.
According to him, the industrial action will also take place in major cities across the country and the world.
“The global log-off movement, in which the AUATON chapter in the state will fully participate, is aimed at demanding improved working conditions for app-based transport workers.
“This decision was reached during an emergency meeting of the Rivers State Administrative Council (SAC) of AUATON held on April 23,” he said.
Amos further said that during the meeting, members unanimously agreed to log off from their Uber, Bolt, InDrive, and other ride-hailing applications in protest.
“The protest seeks to address the harsh realities and exploitative conditions faced by app-based drivers, including excessive commission charges, and lack of social protection.
“We are also protesting poor earnings, and the general disregard for drivers’ welfare exhibited by the app companies.
“As a union, we can no longer remain silent while our members continue to suffer under these unjust and unsustainable conditions,” he added.
The AUATON Chairman also announced that a rally would be held on May 1 to mark International Workers’ Day at the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) Secretariat in Port Harcourt.
He urged members of the union to assemble at the secretariat to demonstrate solidarity and raise awareness for their course.
“The rally will serve as both a protest and a call to government, stakeholders, and the public to support the fight for justice and dignity in Nigeria’s rapidly growing app-based transport sector.
“This global action represents a united stand by drivers worldwide, declaring that enough is enough,” Amos further said. (NAN
