E-hailing drivers in Lagos, under the Amalgamated Union of App-based Transporters of Nigeria (AUATON), have strongly opposed Bolt’s recent 50% fare reduction, threatening to shut down the app in protest.
In a statement obtained by Technext, AUATON’s Public Relations Officer, Comrade Steven Iwindoye, condemned the price slash, describing it as a severe blow to drivers already struggling to earn a living.
“The AUATON Lagos State Chapter strongly condemns the recent 50% price slash imposed by Bolt. This drastic reduction in earnings severely impacts all AUATON members, who are already struggling to make ends meet. The continued fare reductions and unfair treatment by ride-hailing platforms such as Bolt, Uber, Indrive, and Rida have pushed drivers to their breaking point. The only solution is for drivers to unite and take a stand,” the statement read.
Drivers Reject Bolt’s Justification
Drivers reported noticing the fare reduction while working last Friday. One driver operating a Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) vehicle described the new fares as “ridiculous,” even for a fuel-efficient operation.
Upon reaching out to Bolt for clarification, the company claimed that a group of drivers had requested the fare reduction. However, this explanation was met with skepticism and strong opposition from drivers.
Jaiyesimi Azeez, Chairman of AUATON’s Lagos State Chapter, dismissed Bolt’s claim, stating that no driver would willingly request lower fares.
“There’s no way any driver would ask for a fare slash. This is a tactic Bolt uses to control drivers. They form groups, pay some drivers, and then claim the decision came from drivers themselves,” he alleged.
Other drivers echoed similar sentiments, with some calling Bolt’s explanation “false and misleading.” A driver named John challenged Bolt to publicly reveal the names of those who supposedly requested the price reduction.
Another driver, Kanmi, was even more blunt:
“It’s ridiculous. No driver in their right mind would request lower fares. For what reason?”
Broader Issues in the E-Hailing Industry
Bolt is not the only ride-hailing platform accused of lowering fares without consulting drivers. Drivers say Uber and inDrive have also reduced fares, but in a more gradual manner. Bolt, however, implemented a drastic price cut in one move.
Industry analysts suggest that these fare reductions stem from Nigeria’s deteriorating economic conditions, including rising inflation and a weakening currency. With consumers facing declining purchasing power, ride-hailing companies are slashing fares to attract more riders.
In response to inquiries from Technext, Bolt Nigeria’s General Manager, Osi Oguah, defended the move, calling it a “fare adjustment” rather than a 50% reduction.
“We understand the drivers’ concerns. However, this was not a 50% price slash. Our fare adjustments in Lagos are aimed at optimizing driver earnings in the long run by increasing demand and reducing downtime,” he explained.
Drivers Call for Strike Action
Despite Bolt’s justification, drivers argue that the move severely impacts their earnings, especially since it was implemented without prior notice.
A driver, Kola, expressed frustration over the lack of communication:
“Where in the world do companies crash prices without prior notice? No email, no official correspondence. Are we toddlers? How can they change pricing without consulting stakeholders?”
Another driver, Faith, argued that if Bolt truly wanted to support drivers, they should reduce their commission instead of lowering fares alone.
“Bolt is only concerned about riders and their high commission. If they believe lower fares will attract more customers, then they should also reduce their commission,” he said.
In response to these grievances, drivers are calling for a total shutdown of the app.
“The only solution is to stop working—whether you belong to the union or not. No driver should accept these ridiculous fares from Bolt, Uber, inDrive, or Rida. This time, we will ensure full compliance,” said a driver named Dan.
Another driver, Blessing, emphasized the collective power of drivers:
“They think we need them, but they fail to realize that without us, their business will collapse within hours.”
Union Mobilizes for Massive Protest
The drivers’ union has urged all app-based transport workers, regardless of union affiliation, to join the protest.
“We cannot afford to have drivers undermining this effort by continuing to work under unfair conditions. The success of this protest depends on the unity of all drivers. Some have been hesitant in the past, but this is an opportunity to unite for a common goal,” AUATON stated.
The union has also encouraged drivers to express their dissatisfaction directly to Bolt by formally registering their complaints about the fare reduction.
“When the protest date is announced, we must stand together and use our collective power to bring about change. This may require bold action, but it’s necessary to secure a better future for drivers and the entire ride-hailing industry,” the statement concluded.
