Nigerian E-hailing Drivers Join NLC Strike: Service Suspension Announced
The Amalgamated Union of App-based Transporters of Nigeria (AUATON), the umbrella body for e-hailing drivers across Nigeria, has instructed its members to cease operations in solidarity with the ongoing national strike called by the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC). This decision, communicated through a circular signed by AUATON President Comrade Adedamola Adeniran, directly impacts the availability of ride-hailing services nationwide.
Understanding the Strike and its Impact on Tech
The NLC’s indefinite strike, which began on Monday, June 3rd, is a direct response to economic policies implemented by the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. The labor congress is advocating for several key demands: a new minimum wage for Nigerian workers, the reversal of the recent hike in electricity tariffs from N225/KwH to the original N65/KwH, and the removal of the band categorization system for electricity consumption. AUATON’s participation in the strike signifies a significant disruption to Nigeria’s rapidly growing tech-enabled transportation sector, demonstrating how labor disputes can affect the accessibility of key digital services for everyday citizens. The strike action will likely result in increased wait times and a scarcity of available rides for commuters. This highlights the intersection of labor rights and the evolving digital landscape in Africa.
The AUATON circular emphasizes the obligation of all e-hailing drivers to comply with the NLC’s directive to ensure the success of the protest.
The AUATON’s participation underscores the broad impact of the NLC strike across various sectors of the Nigerian economy, including the tech-driven e-hailing industry. The suspension of services affects both drivers and riders, creating challenges within the urban transportation ecosystem.
Keywords
Related Keywords: NLC strike, Nigeria Labour Congress strike, NLC industrial action, Nigerian workers strike, strike action Nigeria, NLC update, labor dispute Nigeria, NLC news, strike impact, nationwide strike Nigeria
