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By Moses Akaigwe
The Lagos State Ministry of Transportation yesterday said it has noted with dismay the misinformation on various social media channels on the data-sharing agreement between the government and the e-hailing platforms operating in the state.
This was contained in a statement issued on Sunday by the Transportation Commissioner, Mr. Oluwaseun Osiyemi.
The commissioner clarified that all the e-hailing companies agreed to the importance of the data-shaing arrangement to security and safety in the state, stating that each company had independently signed an agreement, fully committing to its implementation.
Osiyemi, therefore, affirmed the ministry’s unwavering commitment to ensuring complete compliance with these measures.
The statement further read, “The API (Application Programming Interface) integration was instituted to establish a reliable driver and passenger verification platform which will enable the government to ensure that the e-hailing services comply with necessary background checks, vehicle inspections, and driver licensing requirements.
“This will significantly reduce the risk of unauthorised or unqualified individuals operating as drivers, enhancing the overall safety and trustworthiness of the e-hailing platforms.
“By prioritising the safety and security of drivers and passengers, this collaboration will play a vital role in transforming Lagos into a city with a more reliable and trusted transportation network.
“We wish to state that APIs are not new, and there should be no fears about real-time tracking of users, considering the existing practices of digital platforms such as Google, Instagram, Facebook, and even Netflix.
“With their tracking practices, these social media channels already track users’ real-time locations through their various services, enabling them to push location-specific content to users.
“Therefore, the introduction of an API with e-hailing services for real-time tracking in Lagos should be seen as a positive step towards ensuring the safety and security of drivers and passengers.
“The API will also enable the government to react promptly in emergencies, providing an additional layer of protection to users of this service.
“It is apposite to state that notable countries and states in America, Asia, and Europe have adopted API integration in view of its vital role in enabling real-time data sharing, monitoring, and accountability during active trips.
“Accordingly, the promptness of Lagos State in aligning with the API in accordance with international best practices should be applauded as it emphasises the state’s special status as a pacesetter in Nigeria, of which the API integration is a shining example. “
Osiyemi expressed his ministry’s gratitude to all e-hailing companies that have voluntarily adhered to the data-sharing agreement.
He called on “Uber, the only company yet to fully comply, to promptly seek resolution within the established regulatory framework.”
The Commissioner, however, warned that non-compliance with the stipulations of the agreement will lead to stringent sanctions in strict accordance with State laws and regulations.
“We emphasize that the decision to enforce sanctions is a measure of last resort, undertaken in the best interest of all stakeholders.”
In another development, the Lagos State Ministry of Transportation has announced dedicated {telephone} hotlines aimed at facilitating public feedback and complaints regarding the activities of the ministry and its officials.
A statement from the Ministry of Transportation said the phone numbers for lodging complaints and providing feedback are as follows:09020009000 or 09020004000.
The hotlines, the statement added, will provide Lagos residents with a direct channel to express their concerns, report grievances, and provide valuable feedback on transportation-related matters.
The ministry said it recognises the importance of fostering transparency, accountability, and responsiveness in governance, which is why the numbers are being made available to the public.
“Members of the public are encouraged to utilise this service responsibly by providing accurate information and details when lodging complaints or sharing feedback.
“The Ministry assures the public of its commitment to addressing all inquiries and complaints promptly and effectively.”
