NIGERIA — Amalgamated Union of App-Based Transport Workers of Nigeria (AUATWON) has announced a 200% increase in transport fare and a minimum ride cost of N2000 to compensate for the removal of fuel subsidy by the federal government. The union has called on all app companies to set their commission rates at a flat 10% and for a five percent subsidy on riders' fares until the impact of increased transportation prices can be mitigated with the homogeneous commission. The union also demanded that no workers be penalized for the inability to afford increased fuel costs.
Jossy Olawale, the Chairman of Media and Publicity Committee, spoke out on behalf of the union, stating that members' profitability has been reduced by over 300% due to increased fuel prices and rising motor spares costs and labour expenses. As passengers control offers and not workers, the union has no control over the pricing of rides, unlike branded taxi drivers, bus drivers, and independent cab drivers. Despite the increase in expenses, app companies continue to charge a commission between 20-25%, leading to reduced profits for workers.
Olawale called for a swift response from app companies to the union's demands, praising members for their peaceful conduct in carrying out their work. The demands put forward by AUATWON aim to cushion the effect of increased transportation prices while ensuring workers are not left in financial distress due to the impact of fuel subsidy removal.
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