Uber and Bolt e-hailing cab drivers have threatened to commence an indefinite strike in Lagos State with effect from Monday, the 19th of April 2021.
The drivers under the umbrella of Professional E-Hailing Drivers and Private Owners Association (PEDPA) are demanding an increase in fares being charged by the operators.
They insist that they would down tools if their demands are not met.
National President of PEDPA, Mr Idris Shonuga, during a press conference in Lagos called for an immediate upward review in the e-cab fares in view of the current economic realities of Nigeria.
According to him, 95% of Nigerians who patronise the e-hailing services use either Uber or Bolt e-cabs.
He lamented that the companies have failed to review their pricing in spite of the spiralling inflation especially with increases in the pump price of petrol, vehicle spare parts, food items and other essential commodities.
Shonuga said in his statement that, “Your companies have failed, refused and neglected to honour our request for a meeting to discuss issues beneficial to all e-hailing drivers in Nigeria.
“And to fashion a harmonious relationship That will benefit, dignify and improve the standard of living of e-hailing drivers, private car owners and the general standard of e-hailing business in the country.
“Instead of fixing a new and reasonable fare in line with inflation, the companies have recklessly continued to maintain the low fare, thereby, impoverishing hard-working young Nigerians who are diligently and lawfully trying to make a decent living.”
The association is, in addition, demanding adequate welfare package for the drivers and compensation to families who lost breadwinners or whose relatives are permanently disabled in the course of duty.
They revealed that over 15 drivers have died while a number of others became permanently disabled in the course of their duties.