The story chronicles the perilous experiences of e-hailing drivers in Lagos, Nigeria, underscoring the severe dangers they face and the inadequate responses from companies like Bolt and Uber. Through a series of harrowing incidents, it highlights the life-threatening risks, lack of sufficient safety measures, and inadequate support from the e-hailing companies.

Tomi Waziri’s Ordeal

On September 12, 2023, Tomi Waziri, a 27-year-old former Bolt driver, faced a traumatic event while driving on Apongbon Bridge in Lagos. As he was stuck in traffic with a passenger, two men approached his car and began a violent attempt to rob him. One of the men was armed with a gun. In an attempt to comply, Waziri rolled down his car window to hand over his phone, but was shot with a locally-made gun. The pellets from the gun severely injured him, causing him to go blind and leaving 29 pellets embedded in his head. Despite his critical condition and hospital bills totaling over N1.7 million, Bolt’s response was minimal, offering only N250,000 and failing to provide further support or follow-up.

Steven Morenikeji’s Disappearance

Steven Morenikeji, an Uber driver, went missing on September 5, 2023. His fiancée, Adesanwo Adeola, became alarmed when he did not return home by midnight. She attempted to contact him, but his phone was off. The car company tracked his vehicle and provided Adeola with the location, leading her to discover the abandoned car with missing parts. The police later informed her that Steven had been murdered, with his body found on Abule-Egba bridge. Despite the tragic circumstances, Uber has not reached out to Adeola or addressed her concerns.

Ebenezer Ademola’s Vanishing

Ebenezer Ademola, a Bolt driver, disappeared on February 14, 2021, after promising his wife a special Valentine’s Day treat. Carol, his wife, grew worried when he did not return home as expected. After failing to reach him and receiving no support from Bolt initially without a police report, the case was transferred to Panti Police Station. Despite her efforts, Ebenezer’s whereabouts remained unknown, and Bolt’s lack of communication and support left Carol distressed and frustrated.

Ismaila Ibrahim Atama’s Tragic End

On March 12, 2021, Ismaila Ibrahim Atama, a filmmaker and Bolt driver, set out for work but never returned. After a prolonged search and multiple interactions with Bolt, the family was eventually informed of his death when his body was discovered in a mortuary. Bolt’s response was to claim that Atama’s trip had ended offline, complicating the search efforts and leaving his family disheartened by the company’s indifference.

Adeniji Olanrewaju’s Attack

Adeniji Olanrewaju, a Bolt driver, was attacked on August 28, 2020, by riders in Lekki. During a trip, one of the riders attacked him with a knife, while others joined in the assault. Olanrewaju was beaten and his car was stolen. Despite reporting the incident, he was left traumatized, and the case remained unresolved.

Abama Phillips’ Near-Fatal Assault

On May 13, 2021, Abama Phillips, another Bolt driver, was attacked after a passenger requested that he stop on a bridge. The passenger and accomplices then assaulted Phillips and attempted to hijack his vehicle. Phillips fought back and shouted for help, which led to his rescue by passersby. Despite the rescue, the attackers managed to escape with his car.

Systemic Issues and Company Responses

The incidents reflect a broader problem of insecurity for e-hailing drivers, particularly those working late hours. Many drivers face significant financial pressures due to high commission rates from companies like Uber and Bolt, which often forces them to work extended hours and increases their vulnerability to attacks. The companies charge high commissions and fees, leaving drivers with minimal earnings after expenses.

Bolt and Uber have introduced some safety measures, but these are often insufficient and not tailored to the specific risks in Nigeria. Bolt has a Driver Shield Insurance package, but its coverage is criticized as inadequate. Uber introduced Partner Injury Protection, but it has not addressed the specific issues faced by drivers in Lagos.

Driver Advocacy

Idris Shonuga, National President of the Professional E-Hailing Drivers Association (PEDPA), argues that both Uber and Bolt need to improve their safety measures and support systems. He suggests that better profiling of riders, similar to the screening of drivers, and the implementation of more stringent safety protocols could help reduce the risks. He also highlights the need for companies to take responsibility for their drivers’ welfare.

The story reveals a grim reality for e-hailing drivers in Lagos, characterized by severe security risks, financial strain, and inadequate support from their employers. The need for enhanced safety measures, better support systems, and more effective insurance coverage is crucial to address the threats faced by these drivers. The lack of response and empathy from Bolt and Uber exemplifies a significant gap in the safety and welfare of e-hailing drivers in Nigeria.