In Nigeria, stakeholders have come together to demand stronger protections for app-based drivers, highlighting significant concerns about victimization, misclassification, and workplace hazards. The call to action was articulated in a recent statement from John Omole, President of the African Forum for Restorative Justice, who emphasized the importance of dignity and safety for digital workers, particularly those relying on app-based platforms for employment.

Omole pointed out that many app-based drivers have experienced various forms of mistreatment without a proper mechanism to voice their grievances, largely due to fears surrounding retaliation and insufficient legal protections. He underscored the chilling effect of unclear employment classifications, which often leave these workers vulnerable to exploitation and unsafe work conditions, thus necessitating a urgent reevaluation of legal frameworks surrounding gig economy employment in Nigeria.

The initiative also introduces the concept of restorative justice as a viable alternative to traditional models of addressing workplace harm. By focusing on dialogue, healing, and shared accountability, stakeholders believe this approach could not only empower app-based drivers but also create a safer, more equitable working environment in which their rights are respected and upheld. This advocacy highlights a broader need for systemic change in the labor practices associated with digital platforms, particularly as the gig economy continues to expand across Nigeria.