Uber Moove remittance increase has angered Lagos drivers, with unions calling it exploitative and threatening strike action if demands are unme

The Amalgamated Union of App-Based Transporters of Nigeria (AUATON), Lagos Chapter, slammed the 100 per cent rise in daily remittances under the Drive-to-Own (DTO) scheme — from ₦9,400 to ₦18,700.

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At a press briefing on Monday, the union accused Uber and its fleet partner Moove of imposing unbearable financial burdens without consultation or fare adjustments.

Comrade Steven Iwindoye, AUATON’s public-relations officer, said the Uber Moove remittance increase amounted to corporate greed:

“Uber and Moove cannot continue to pursue profitability at the expense of human dignity, public safety, and workers’ rights.”

Uber has distanced itself from the decision, insisting the increase was solely Moove’s call. “Drivers are at the heart of what we do, and we recognise the impact this change may have on them.

The dispute underscores deeper tensions in Nigeria’s gig economy. Drivers allege unfair deductions for a health scheme they cannot access, manipulated repayment records that extend debt obligations, and punitive conditions requiring 72 work hours weekly and 82 trips per week.

AUATON warned these demands heighten fatigue-related risks on Lagos roads.

Drivers under the DTO plan also face a higher commission rate of 33.33 per cent compared with 25 per cent for regular Uber drivers.

“This discriminatory practice further reduces already limited income and constitutes economic exploitation,” Iwindoye added.

The union issued a 72-hour ultimatum for Uber and Moove to open dialogue, threatening indefinite strike action within five working days if ignored.

Demands include a reversal of the daily remittance to ₦9,400, genuine enrolment in healthcare schemes, transparent audits of repayment records, reduced mandatory work hours, and equalised commission rates.

AUATON urged the Federal Ministry of Labour, Lagos State Government, and the Nigeria Labour Congress to intervene, stressing that while innovation is welcome, technology must not be a “cover for exploitation.”

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“This is not just a labour issue; it is a social justice issue,” Iwindoye declared. “Together, we can ensure that app-based transportation in Nigeria thrives, not on the backs of exploited workers, but on fairness and mutual respect.”