In the wake of the recent passing of Adebayo Padmore, a driver for LagRide in Nigeria, the country’s ride-hailing drivers are mobilizing to demand health insurance packages from e-hailing companies. Among the major players, only Bolt presently provides health insurance to its drivers, albeit contingent on meeting specific performance targets. LagRide and Uber, however, currently do not offer such benefits, according to insights gathered from three drivers by TechCabal.
Ibrahim Ayoade, the general secretary of the App-Based Transporters of Nigeria (AUATON), underscored their commitment to ensuring that all ride-hailing companies include their members in Health Maintenance Organisation (HMO) plans.
Drivers are advocating for health insurance benefits that are not tied to performance metrics. Femi Adeyemo, Bolt’s Local Communication manager, clarified, “We have been providing health insurance for three years” via text message.
Contrary to this statement, drivers contend that the health insurance feature acts as an incentive, with Jolaiya Moses, the national treasurer for the Union, stating, “Bolt has one they use as an incentive when you overwork yourself to make about 300 trips. Many people have accidents trying to win the healthcare bonus.”
In contrast, an unnamed driver revealed that LagRide has asked drivers to contribute towards their health insurance. Uber’s stance remains unclear, as Lorraine Onduru, Uber’s head of communications for East and West Africa, has not responded to inquiries. Uber currently offers injury protection solely during active trips, categorizing its drivers as independent contractors rather than employees.
TechCabal had previously reported on the tragic passing of Padmore, who lost his life while preparing for his regular passenger pickups. His demise has brought to light concerns over the financing model utilized by LagRide, as Ayoade had earlier criticized it for encouraging unrealistic returns and financial struggles among drivers. Some drivers have resorted to sleeping in their cars on highways due to the challenges posed by this financing model.
Padmore’s untimely death has spurred a collective call among drivers for improved health insurance provisions. Ayoade stated that they are currently evaluating the situation, and further actions will be discussed following Padmore’s funeral this weekend. The incident has ignited a broader conversation within the ride-hailing community, prompting drivers to unite in their advocacy for enhanced health insurance support.
