The Union of App Drivers in Nigeria (AUATON) faces yet another leadership crisis with the recent vote of no confidence against its president, Adedamola Adeniran. This decision reflects ongoing internal conflicts that threaten the unity of the organization.
Vote of No Confidence Against Adedamola Adeniran
During the Central Working Committee (CWC) meeting on June 23, 2025, a unanimous decision was made to pass a vote of no confidence against President Adedamola Adeniran. This was due to multiple breaches of the constitution, administrative overreach, and health issues.
"A motion was moved by Comrade Nwachukwu Chinedu and seconded by Comrade Edache Obande, and the CWC unanimously adopted a vote of no confidence against the National President, Comrade Adedamola Adeniran, due to constitutional breaches, administrative overreach, and persistent disruption of democratic processes," part of the statement reads.
Background to the Crisis in AUATON
AUATON, the only African union for app drivers, was established in 2023 from the merger of three previously separate associations: NACORP, PEDPAN, and NUPABTW. The internal conflicts arise at a time of increasing operational costs and a struggle against commission hikes on platforms like Uber and Bolt.
Internal Conflicts and Disagreements
AUATON is known to have two factions: one led by Adedamola Adeniran and the other by David Nosa Aigbornan. Accusations have surfaced regarding Adeniran's adherence to the union's constitutional norms. The opposing faction has also initiated court proceedings to challenge Adeniran's leadership.
"For your information, we have two factions within AUATON now. Our faction is led by David Nosa Aigbornan. And we are presently in court to challenge the current executives because, based on our constitution, they are no longer members of AUATON," said Comrade Ibrahim Ayoade, serving as the Acting Secretary of the opposing faction.
The crisis within AUATON poses a significant challenge to the unity and stability of a union that has only recently begun to recover from years of disintegration. The situation requires close monitoring to determine whether the organization can navigate its internal conflicts and financial challenges in the industry.
