The Amalgamated Union of App-Based Transporters of Nigeria (AUATON) has taken a bold step, submitting a detailed petition to the National Assembly. The union accuses Uber, Bolt, and InDrive of “systemic corporate violence, repeated victimization and the misclassification of app-based transport workers.”
Dated on the 1st of May, 2025, the petition was sent to the Chairman of the House Committee on Public Petitions.
AUATON is urging lawmakers to act fast. The union says thousands of Nigerian app-based drivers are working under dire conditions without adequate protection, fair pay, or recognition.
According to AUATON’s National President, Damola Adeniran, the ride-hailing giants have done little to shield drivers from violent attacks ranging from carjackings to murder.
The union blames poor passenger screening and weak safety protocols for the frequent attacks. It also accuses the companies of exploiting legal loopholes by labeling drivers as “self-employed,” a status that strips them of critical labour rights like social security, fair wages, and the ability to unionize.
Adeniran said families continue to mourn loved ones lost while driving for these companies.
“Platform drivers have been victims of manslaughter, carjacking, car theft and other violent crimes. This problem stems from the misclassification of drivers under a disguised employment relationship,” he wrote.
To strengthen its case, AUATON cited Section 40 of the Nigerian Constitution, Section 91 of the Labour Act, and key International Labour Organization (ILO) conventions.
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The union also shared real-life cases:
• Kevin Ogah Ede was killed in October 2023 after completing a ride. His car had a tracker, but his killers remain free. Bolt, according to AUATON, has offered no response or support to his family.
• Pastor Luka was shot in the neck in May 2024 during a failed car theft. He spent two months in the hospital. Two of the attackers were later freed without facing trial.
AUATON is calling for a National Restorative Conference in July 2025. They want lawmakers, regulators, platform companies, and workers’ representatives to redefine drivers’ employment status and expand their access to social protection.
The union also condemned the National Collective Agreement adopted in May 2024, saying it has failed to improve conditions.
“This petition challenges the actions of platforms in Nigeria as a violation of the constitutional and fundamental human rights of app-based transport workers,” the document reads.
A supporting research paper commissioned by AUATON accompanied the petition. It outlines policy solutions and supports the union’s demands with evidence.
Will the National Assembly respond with meaningful reforms?