Drivers operating under LagRide, the Lagos State-backed e-hailing platform, have raised serious concerns over what they describe as chronic technical failures, unmet commitments, and exploitative practices by the companies managing the platform.
In a statement issued by the Amalgamated Union of App-Based Transporters of Nigeria (AUATON) and signed by its Public Relations Officer, Steven Iwindoye, the drivers referred to on the platform as “captains” criticized the poor functionality of the LagRide mobile app, especially in locations outside Lagos Island and the city’s central business districts.
According to the union, captains operating in areas such as Ikorodu, Badagry, Igando, Abule Egba, Alagbado, and Epe often experience hours without receiving trip requests, even during peak commuting periods.
“How can captains make consistent progress when the LagRide app still fails to function optimally?” the union asked in the statement. “Many commuters in these areas have abandoned the service due to its inefficiencies, opting instead for alternative transport options.”
Beyond technical glitches, the union accused LagRide’s operators of launching the service without adequate market research, feasibility studies, or sustained advertising campaigns. These shortcomings, the drivers say, have resulted in low visibility for the platform and limited user engagement, undermining its mission to enhance public transportation through technology.
Also at issue are unfulfilled promises made during the onboarding process. All drivers reportedly completed a mandatory four-day training programme, during which they were assured of features like real-time remittance tracking and transparent in-app repayment systems. However, many captains say those tools remain unavailable, leaving them in the dark about their earnings and financial obligations.
Financial burdens have also become a flashpoint. For over two years, captains claim they have been solely responsible for vehicle repairs, insurance premiums, and maintenance costs, despite having paid upfront fees to the platform’s financial partner, Ibile Holdings. Several drivers allege that insurance benefits are inaccessible, even in cases of road accidents or emergencies.
“The project has drifted far from its original promise of empowerment,” the union’s statement read. “It now feels more like an exploitative business cloaked in the language of public service and innovation.”
In response, the union called for immediate and comprehensive reforms. Their demands include fixing the platform’s technical and functional issues, ensuring app reliability across all parts of Lagos, launching a statewide advertising and awareness campaign, expanding coverage to underserved communities, and fulfilling all previously promised incentives, including insurance, vehicle servicing, and repayment transparency.
“We urge LagRide and relevant authorities to return to the drawing board,” the union added. “A collaborative redesign is necessary to ensure the platform truly supports captains and serves the public’s mobility needs.”
In response to the outcry, Niyi Saliu, Executive Director of LagRide, acknowledged the drivers’ complaints, noting that the management has begun addressing the issues raised.
“We’ve started engaging with them on these concerns,” Saliu told our correspondent. “I wouldn’t call it an employer-employee relationship we see them as partners. There’s been a shift from the old system to the new LagRide platform, and as with any transition, there are bound to be challenges.”
Saliu emphasized that while not all issues have been resolved, progress is being made. “They have legitimate concerns and the right to advocate for themselves,” he added. “We’re not where we want to be yet, but we’re working on it.”
As the platform navigates this growing rift between its operators and drivers, the outcome could significantly shape the future of app-based transport in Lagos and determine whether government-backed mobility initiatives can truly thrive in Nigeria’s fast-evolving gig economy.
