A digital feud between Nigerians and South Africans has escalated, resulting in extreme price hikes and unavailability of rides on Bolt and Uber platforms in Cape Town and Johannesburg.
The rivalry, sparked by a beauty pageant controversy involving Chidimma Adetshina’s withdrawal from the Miss South Africa pageant over backlash against foreigners, has seen citizens from both countries booking and canceling rides, leaving drivers stranded and services disrupted. The feud has raised concerns about the safety measures that ride-hailing platforms have in place to prevent fraudulent bookings.
Bolt Nigeria Country Manager Yahaya Mohammed acknowledged the issue, saying, “Bolt is aware of an incident involving fake ride requests between individuals in Nigeria and South Africa. We have successfully taken action to resolve the issue of fake ride requests affecting our driver partners, particularly those operating in Nigeria and South Africa.”
On social media, reactions were mixed. Daniel Regha tweeted, “Hope you South Africans & Nigerians realise that these bolt drivers are people trying to make ends meet; you are not only wasting your time and money but you are also inconveniencing people who really need their services. This is not a game, this is disgusting.”
@Irunnia warned, “The game South Africans are playing with Uber will never stop until they fix the app. Nigerians are the last people you want to play this kind of game with. If you are humble, they will always be humble and they will never stop!”
READ ALSO: S’Africa accuses Miss SA contestant Chidinma Adetshina’s mother of fraud, identity theft
@Divineofspring advises Bolt and Uber drivers, “When you get a booking, call the person who booked the ride and pay attention to their accent. Ask a few questions using local terms and slang. If possible, follow up with a direct call.”
South Africans also reacted, with @elcoweygetloco warning, “Hope they know Nigerians are unemployed, they shouldn’t allow Nigerians to play this game with them because Nigerians will really do it.”
Moris Monye noted, “So let me just say it. South Africans pay to cancel bolt rides. For Nigerians, the cancellations are free. Only one party loses when people go head to head.”
Bayo Otedola tweeted, “Nigerians don’t need to beg South Africans to stop the Bolt challenge they have started. With the population we have and the internet access we have, it would not be funny if Nigerians reciprocate this spirit.”
@Oladapomikky1 claimed, “Based on my stats, I have successfully booked 15 Uber/Bolt drivers this morning in Johannesburg. South Africans. Aura for Aura. Fellow Nigerians, how many Unna have booked this morning?”
By: Olamide Ayoade
Bolt and Uber drivers hit as Chidimma withdrawal sparks digital ‘war’ between Nigerians and South Africans first appeared on Latest Nigeria News | Headlines from Ripples Nigeria.
