The Amalgamated Union of App-Based Transporters of Nigeria (AUATON) has rejected its Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Federal Ministry of Labour and the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), citing constitutional inconsistencies. The union is now focusing on worsening welfare conditions among its members.
Emergency NEC Meeting
The decision was reached during an emergency National Executive Council (NEC) meeting held on April 25, 2026, following the expiration of the MOU. The MOU had previously prevented the union’s Central Working Committee (CWC) from holding NEC meetings.
In a statement by the Chairman of the Media, Publicity and Technical Committee, Comrade Jossy Adaraniwon, the emergency session was necessary due to mounting pressure from state councils. Members sought national direction on declining earnings, high commissions, and rising safety concerns in the ride-hailing sector.
Unanimous Resolution
The NEC, chaired by AUATON President Comrade Damola Adeniran and attended by representatives nationwide, unanimously decided to prioritise the union’s constitution over the expired MOU. “The NEC appreciated the Federal Ministry of Labour and the Nigeria Labour Congress for their timely intervention in preventing factionalisation of the union,” Adaraniwon said. “However, it emphasised the need for the union to operate strictly in line with its constitution as approved by the Ministry, noting that aspects of the MOU contradicted this framework and enabled acts capable of destabilising the union.”
Internal Leadership Decisions
The NEC ratified several internal leadership decisions, including the reinstatement of the incumbent president to the NLC after what was described as an “illegal removal.” The president was also restored as the primary signatory to the union’s bank accounts. The Acting General Secretary was elevated to a substantive role, and plans were approved for the next physical NEC meeting in Akwa Ibom State.
Disciplinary Actions
On disciplinary matters, the NEC recommended sanctions against members accused of anti-union activities, constitutional breaches, and actions that could bring the organisation into disrepute. Adaraniwon noted the meeting highlighted the urgency of addressing members’ welfare challenges through stronger collective bargaining and unified engagement with stakeholders in the gig economy.
President’s Call for Unity
In his closing remarks, Adeniran commended members for their commitment to preserving the union’s unity, urging continued support for efforts to secure improved working conditions. “Members must remain steadfast and united in the pursuit of better welfare and industry standards,” Adaraniwon quoted the president as saying.
AUATON has faced internal disputes in recent months, with concerns over leadership tussles and broader challenges facing app-based transport workers in Nigeria’s rapidly evolving gig economy.
