A recent online feud between Nigerian and South African users of ride-hailing apps Bolt and Uber has left drivers frustrated and out of pocket. The conflict began when South African users started booking fake rides in Nigeria, sending drivers to specific locations only to cancel upon arrival. This prank not only wasted drivers’ time but also caused financial losses.
Nigerian users retaliated by booking and cancelling rides in South Africa, sparking a series of posts where Nigerians vowed to outdo their South African counterparts. The online feud has added to the tension between the two communities, with some users referencing the recent xenophobia-related controversy involving Chidimma Adetshina, a model who withdrew from the Miss South Africa beauty pageant.
Ride-hailing company Bolt has taken measures to address the situation, restricting inter-country ride requests and blocking those responsible from the Bolt app. Bolt’s Country Manager, Yahaya Mohammed, acknowledged the issue, stating that the company has successfully taken measures to resolve the issue of fake ride requests affecting drivers in Nigeria and South Africa.
Reactions from both sides have been mixed. Many Nigerians have taken a proactive stance, intensifying their efforts in response to the challenge. On the other hand, some South Africans have conceded defeat, recognizing the challenge’s negative impact on their drivers and the broader economy. Prominent voices have called for a separation of the groups to avoid further damage, and some users have expressed regret over the situation.
The digital feud has raised concerns about the safety measures ride-hailing platforms have in place to prevent fraudulent bookings and the impact on drivers trying to make a living. As the situation continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how ride-hailing companies will address the issue and prevent similar incidents in the future.
