Lagos Assembly Receives AUATON Petition, Moves To Tackle Ride-Hailing Crisis

The Lagos State House of Assembly has formally received a petition from members of the Amalgamated Union of App-Based Transporters of Nigeria (AUATON), Lagos Council, seeking urgent legislative intervention in the operations of ride-hailing companies within the state.

The petition, accompanied by a peaceful demonstration, was presented by the union’s spokesperson, Mr. Azeez Jaiyesimi, who outlined growing concerns affecting app-based drivers across Lagos.

In his submission, Jaiyesimi drew lawmakers’ attention to the worsening conditions within the sector, particularly the rising cases of insecurity. He expressed deep concern over increasing incidents of attacks on drivers—some of which have resulted in fatalities—as well as the loss of vehicles to criminal activities.

He also lamented the absence of adequate response and compensation mechanisms for affected drivers, stressing the urgent need for legislative action.

The protesters further expressed dissatisfaction with previous engagements and stakeholder meetings with ride-hailing companies, noting that such efforts have failed to produce enforceable outcomes. They therefore urged the House to strengthen regulatory oversight and ensure strict compliance within the sector.

Addressing the demonstrators on behalf of the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Ajayi Obasa, Hon. Temitope Adewale (Ifako-Ijaiye I) commended the drivers for their peaceful and orderly conduct.

He emphasized the importance of adhering to due legislative process in addressing the petition, noting that the next stage will involve the submission and consideration of reports from relevant committees before any plenary debate.

Adewale assured the petitioners of the Assembly’s commitment to a thorough and fair review of the issues raised. He also appealed to all stakeholders to remain calm, law-abiding, and patient as the legislative process unfolds, reiterating the House’s resolve to deliver a just and lasting solution.

Lawmakers present at the protest included Hon. Aro Moshood Abiodun (Ikorodu II) and Hon. Apata Samuel (Somolu II), who also acknowledged the concerns raised by the protesters.