Uber Exit: AUATON Warns Bolt, InDrive Against ‘Same Fate’

The Amalgamated Union of App-Based Transporters of Nigeria (AUATON) has criticised Uber’s decision to withdraw from Nigeria, accusing the ride-hailing company of abandoning drivers without adequate notice.

AUATON National Spokesperson, Mr Jossy Adaraniwon, alleged in a statement on Wednesday that Uber exited the Nigerian ride-hailing market without prior communication to its drivers.

Adaraniwon described the move as unprofessional and irresponsible, arguing that thousands of Nigerian drivers had contributed to building Uber’s business in the country.

He alleged that Uber’s departure was linked to what AUATON described as an exploitative business model that failed to adequately recognise workers’ rights and collective bargaining.

The union spokesperson said Bolt and InDrive had subsequently adopted similar practices, creating what he termed a “race-to-the-bottom” within Nigeria’s ride-hailing industry.

He claimed that the development had contributed to longer passenger waiting times, declining driver earnings and a reduction in active drivers as a result of poor working conditions.

Adaraniwon warned Bolt and InDrive against following what he described as Uber’s approach and urged the two companies to establish genuine 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.

He reiterated the union’s demand to be recognised as the sole bargaining representative of app-based transporters, while calling for fair remuneration, welfare packages, transparency, safety and decent working conditions in accordance with International Labour Organisation standards.

Adaraniwon also called on AUATON members nationwide to remain united despite Uber’s exit and support ride-hailing platforms that are prepared to sign 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 taken an anti-union and anti-worker position in Nigeria, including petitioning the Federal Ministry of Labour against the union’s registration.

He also alleged that the company sponsored some individuals within AUATON to trigger internal disputes and frustrate discussions over drivers’ welfare.

Adaraniwon said the union would not allow foreign ride-hailing companies to operate in Nigeria, exploit local drivers and leave the country without accountability.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Uber announced its decision to cease ride-hailing operations in Nigeria on Wednesday.

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