Lagos Uber drivers go offline over 40% fare reduction

Lagos Uber drivers on Monday protested the 40% fare reduction by the taxi service company.

Uber recently reduced its fare shortly after Taxify, a growing competitor, had done the same.

“As of today, Uber has reduced fares by 40% in Lagos. This means you can travel for business or explore your city for less than ever before,” Uber had said in a message sent to riders.

Several drivers have gone offline in protest. The effect of the strike has hampered Uber operations in Lagos.

The protest kicked off at Surulere, after which the drivers headed to the office of Uber, in Lekki, to press home their demands.

One of the protesting drivers, Tunde Aloma, who spoke with TheCable, said the demonstration was a means of expressing their grievance against the company’s decision.

“Uber reduced their price because Taxify did the same but they take different commissions from us. It is not so beneficial to us anymore,” he said.

Uber charges drivers 25% commission fee on all rides while Taxify charges 15%.

Citing their demands, the drivers say they want the current fare reduction halted and Uber’s commission reduced to 10%.

They also demanded a rider verification system to guarantee the security and safety of drivers.