When Lagride deployed 100 electric vehicles (EVs) into the Lagos transport ecosystem in September, the company framed it as the next big leap in clean mobility, spearheaded by its best-performing drivers. But many of those drivers now say the rollout is hurting their performance instead of elevating it.
According to them, the EVs are not yet supported by adequate infrastructure, causing delays, reduced productivity, and a loss of valuable long-term clients.
Charging Port Shortages Leave Drivers Stranded for Hours
A major challenge highlighted by drivers is the limited number of charging stations, which forces them into hours-long waits daily.
One driver recounted the struggle: “Since last night, I haven’t been able to charge. Almost 30 cars were in front of me in Victoria Island. I still didn’t get a full charge. Charging has become a battle.”
Drivers say these queues mean they begin their day late, lose prime working hours, and often can’t fully power their cars before another vehicle needs the charger.
Rapid Battery Drain Makes Long Trips Nearly Impossible
Drivers also argue that the EVs drain far faster than promised. While Lagride claims a single charge can last an entire day, drivers say the reality is very different.
One explained: “The battery dies too quickly. On a busy day, you need at least two full charges. You can’t even attempt places like Ikorodu or Epe. And if the AC is on, the battery drops one percent every three minutes.”
Because of this, many drivers avoid long-distance bookings and stay close to charging hubs, which significantly limits their potential earnings.
Drivers Losing Premium Clients Due to Smaller EV Vehicles
Beyond technical setbacks, some drivers say the switch to compact EVs is hurting their long-term businesses. Those who built client bases around airport trips and SUV-level comfort say their customers are refusing to ride in smaller vehicles.
One driver explained: “My clients travel with big luggage and prefer SUVs that match their status. This small EV is ruining relationships I’ve built for years.” As a result, drivers report a noticeable drop in ride value and customer retention.
Complaints Reportedly Met With Threats and Intimidation
Some drivers say that when they attempted to report the issues, they were dismissed or threatened by company staff.
One driver described his experience: “The RO told me if I don’t want the EV, I should drop the SUV and go. He said thousands are waiting to take my place. I felt insulted and threatened.”
This has heightened resentment among the drivers who believed they were selected because of their professionalism and loyalty.
Lagride: “Assigning EVs to Top Drivers Is a Privilege, Not Punishment”
Responding to the reports, Ifeanyi Abraham, Lagride’s spokesperson, insisted that the EV rollout was designed to empower, not penalise, top drivers.
He said the company intentionally chose disciplined captains to introduce Lagos to cleaner mobility solutions: “Being given an EV shows trust. These vehicles cut fuel costs, reduce maintenance and offer better long-term margins. This is a strategic empowerment move.” He emphasised that the EVs represent the future of mobility in Lagos.
Lagos’ Electric Mobility Push Faces Operational Reality Check
As Lagos continues its transition into greener transportation, Lagride’s EV deployment was meant to signal progress. Yet the concerns raised by drivers highlight critical gaps, especially in charging infrastructure and battery performance.
How Lagride responds could determine whether the city’s wider EV ambitions gain momentum or face major setbacks.
