By Ezechie Awele
Citizens of both Nigeria and South Africa have included bolt drivers in the digital petty feud between the two Nations.
A hashtag #BoltforBolt emerged from the war between the two nations on X and was also trending with over 33 thousand mentions and the other Hashtag #SouthAfricans has gained 84,000 Mentions as of Thursday which was August 22nd.
The conflict started when South Africans instigated the feud by requesting rides from Nigerian Bolt drivers, only to cancel them, leaving the drivers stuck at pick-up points.
Several videos of South Africans engaging in this petty feud has gone viral on several social media platforms which fueled Nigerians to rally on social media to leverage their strength in numbers.
However, there have been different reactions on what the impact of this trend will have on Bolt drivers from both sides seeking to make a living. We compiled some of these reactions from the ongoing “Bolt for Bolt” challenge.
Daniel Regha
“Hope you South Africans & Nigerians realize that these bolt drivers are people who are trying to make ends meet; Y’all are not only wasting their time plus money but also inconveniencing people who really need their services. This is not a game, it’s sickening.”
Oiza
“This bolt challenge that’s going on between Nigerians and South Africans is annoying because innocent bolt drivers are suffering for it. Imagine looking for your daily meal and some people are using it to play on Twitter.”
Mbah
“South Africans think they’re petty they were not informed Nigerians Arise!!!! Bolt for Bolt”
@Divineofspring
“This week, my advice to all Uber and Bolt drivers in Nigeria is: 1. When you get a booking, call the person who booked the ride and pay attention to their accent. 2. Ask them some questions using local terms and slang. 3. If possible, follow up with a direct call to South Africans”
