E-hailing drivers in Lagos, organized under the Amalgamated Union of App-Based Transporters of Nigeria, are contemplating a protest due to an ongoing disagreement involving a data-sharing arrangement between the Lagos State government and Uber Technologies System Nigeria Limited.
Recent actions by the Lagos State Ministry of Transportation (MOT), which reportedly include impounding vehicles of Uber app users for alleged non-compliance with the agreement, have sparked the drivers’ response.
The state government has mandated Uber to integrate its application programme interface (API) for real-time data sharing during active trips, citing purposes of government monitoring and accountability.
However, the specifics of real-time data provision remain unclear despite Uber’s assurances of secure and automated platforms.
Jossy Adaraniwon, a spokesperson for the drivers’ union, criticized the MOT’s enforcement tactics, accusing them of placing bait requests on the app to trap and seize vehicles upon the drivers’ arrival.
The union issued a warning of potential protests at the governor’s office if vehicle seizures continue, emphasizing the negative impact on Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s administration.
In response, Lagos State Commissioner for Information Gbenga Omotosho suggested that drivers direct their grievances towards Uber rather than protesting against the government.
He stressed the importance of compliance with government directives for the safety and security of Lagosians and visitors alike.
Omotosho questioned Uber’s transparency in this matter and reiterated the government’s commitment to regulatory adherence for public safety. He emphasized that directives must be followed in the interest of the greater good.
He said, “Instead of protesting against the regulatory authorities, I think what they should do is to protest against Uber.
“We should all consider what they are doing and see whether they want to jeopardise the safety of Lagosians or visitors.
“I sympathise with drivers whose vehicles have been seized, that should not have happened.
“What is Uber hiding? If the state government gives a directive, everybody must follow. The government is doing this in the interest of Lagosians, in the interest of visitors as well as safety and security.”
