By Stella Odueme
The Acting National President of the Amalgamated Union of App-Based Transporters of Nigeria, David Nosa Aigbornan, has reaffirmed his leadership of the union amid an ongoing internal dispute, condemning what he described as misinformation and destabilisation efforts by a dissenting faction.
Addressing journalists in Abuja during activities marking the International Workers’ Day 2026, Aigbornan said the union remains united and constitutionally governed despite attempts to undermine its structure.
He stated that his emergence as Acting National President followed the voluntary resignation of former president, Adedamola Adeniran, on July 23, 2025, which was ratified by the union’s Central Working Committee the following day.
According to him, the transition complied fully with AUATON’s constitution and established trade union procedures.
“Once a National Officer voluntarily relinquishes office, such resignation is final and extinguishes all claims to that mandate for the tenure in question,” Aigbornan said, adding that any attempt to reclaim the position outside constitutional processes is invalid.
He declared that any directives or communications issued in the name of Adeniran as president are “null and void” and not binding on the union.
The AUATON leader also raised concerns over alleged administrative impropriety involving some members of the Central Working Committee, accusing a group allegedly led by Adeniran of engaging in undisclosed arrangements with an app-based company.
He said the alleged agreement, said to span 30 years, could undermine the union’s autonomy and violate its ethical and fiduciary standards if proven.
Aigbornan further accused the faction of mobilising parallel structures and spreading disinformation aimed at destabilising the union, warning that such actions threaten industrial harmony and weaken collective bargaining power.
He reaffirmed that AUATON remains a single, unified body governed by established organs and procedures.
The Acting President disclosed that, in line with directives from the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment, the union is currently strengthening its presence nationwide by consolidating state chapters across the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory.
He called on security and regulatory agencies to remain vigilant in preventing disruptions within the transport sector and to support lawful union activities.
On workers’ welfare, Aigbornan highlighted the economic challenges facing app-based transport workers, including rising operational costs linked to fuel subsidy removal and declining earnings.
He announced that the union has secured a welfare-focused partnership with the Pi CNG & EV Initiative aimed at reducing operational costs through the adoption of Compressed Natural Gas and Electric Vehicle solutions.
According to him, the initiative is designed to improve driver income, support energy transition, and promote sustainable urban transport.
Aigbornan reiterated AUATON’s commitment to internal democracy, industrial peace, and the protection of members’ economic interests, pledging that the union will continue to uphold the dignity of labour and defend its constitutional mandate.
