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Protests Highlight Exploitative Conditions for App-Based Drivers in Edo State
A group of e-hailing drivers, supported by the Amalgamated Union of App-Based Transporters of Nigeria, Edo State Chapter, gathered in Benin City to express their dissatisfaction with the working conditions imposed by app-based transport companies. The protest, held on Tuesday, aimed to draw attention to what the drivers described as unfair treatment and exploitative practices.
The drivers carried placards with messages that emphasized their humanity and the challenges they face. Some of the slogans included “E-hailing drivers in Benin are humans, have families and responsibilities and cannot survive with your unreasonable prices and exploitative commission,” and “Bolt, Uber, and In-Drive reduce your commission and increase the pricing.” These statements highlighted the growing frustration among drivers who feel neglected by the companies they work for.
During the event, Russell Eghaghe, the state Chairman of the union, spoke about the difficulties faced by drivers. He mentioned that the current pricing structures and the harassment from local task forces have made the situation unbearable. Eghaghe compared the plight of drivers to the saying, “Where two elephants fight, it is the grass that suffers.” He urged the government to include drivers in decision-making processes and to address the issues they face.
One of the main concerns raised was the lack of transparency in pricing and commission rates. Drivers pointed out that when app companies adjust their percentages, they often do not inform the drivers. This lack of communication leaves drivers in a vulnerable position, especially when their expenses, such as data and fuel, continue to rise.
Eghaghe also highlighted the financial burden placed on drivers, noting that even when they earn N3,200 for a trip from BIU to Ugbor Road, a significant portion is taken by the app company. He emphasized that drivers are left with little to no profit after covering their costs, making it difficult to maintain their vehicles or improve their working conditions.
In addition to economic concerns, Victor Shuah, the Vice Chairman of the union, raised security issues. He pointed out that while drivers are subjected to strict profiling by the companies, passengers are not held to the same standards. This discrepancy has led to several incidents where drivers have been threatened or harmed. Shuah shared stories of drivers losing their lives and valuable possessions due to unsafe practices.
He also criticized the response from app companies like Bolt, stating that drivers who report threats are often deleted from the platform. Shuah expressed concern over the lack of support from these companies, emphasizing that drivers should be protected rather than ignored.
Festus Alenkhe, the State Chairman of the Nigerian Union of Journalists, addressed the protesters and encouraged them to remain peaceful. He assured the drivers of the journalists’ support and advised the union to engage with the Edo State Government through the Ministry of Transportation to find a solution to the ongoing issues.
Alenkhe also suggested that the union should work closely with the government to establish a fair payment structure and address the harassment from local task forces. He emphasized the importance of collaboration between all stakeholders to ensure that drivers are treated with dignity and respect.
The protest served as a powerful reminder of the challenges faced by e-hailing drivers in Edo State. It highlighted the need for systemic changes to ensure fair treatment, transparency, and safety for those who rely on app-based transport services for their livelihood.
