Edo State AUATON Accuses Bolt of Unfair Driver Deactivations
The Amalgamated Union of App-based Transporters of Nigeria (AUATON) in Edo State has levied serious accusations against the ride-hailing giant, Bolt. The union alleges that Bolt has been unfairly blocking the accounts of numerous drivers operating within the state, effectively barring them from the platform and its potential income. This action, according to AUATON, is based on unsubstantiated rider complaints and executed without providing affected drivers a fair chance to defend themselves. This situation brings into focus the power dynamics within the burgeoning African tech sector and the rights of workers within these platforms.
Lack of Due Process: The Core of the Complaint
Comrade Russell Eghaghe, the state chairman of AUATON, issued a statement expressing the union’s dismay over Bolt’s practices. Eghaghe stated that the deactivations were carried out in bad faith, relying solely on riders’ reports without any proper investigation or pre-emptive warnings. He highlighted a pattern of drivers being suspended or permanently deactivated based on complaints, regardless of whether they had an opportunity to present their version of events. While acknowledging the importance of safety, professionalism, and quality service standards, the union insists that such principles shouldn’t come at the cost of fair treatment for its members. AUATON believes that this approach not only disadvantages individual drivers but also creates an environment of fear and uncertainty among those who depend on Bolt’s platform for their livelihood.
The dispute raises critical questions about accountability and fairness within the African ride-hailing industry. AUATON’s statement serves as a call for Bolt to reassess its procedures and implement practices that prioritize due process and offer drivers the right to be heard before their accounts are blocked.
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