Online taxi firm Bolt has restricted inter-country ride requests between Nigeria and South Africa due to a social media prank war between the two nations. The prank involved booking and canceling rides in the other country, wasting drivers’ time, fuel, and money.
Bolt identified and blocked users participating in this malicious game, which affected drivers in both countries. The company understands the impact on its driver-partners and has taken measures to prevent further disruptions.
The prank war is believed to have started on social media, with users in both countries engaging in a long-standing tradition of trolling each other. However, this recent incident has had serious consequences for drivers, who were left stranded and wasted resources.
Some social media users have rallied behind the drivers, calling for an end to the prank war and emphasizing the importance of respecting those trying to make a living. The incident has also highlighted the surge in fuel prices in Nigeria and the impact on drivers.
This is not the first time Nigeria and South Africa have clashed on social media, with previous incidents involving xenophobic abuse, music, and football. Bolt’s restriction on inter-country ride requests aims to prevent further disruptions and protect its drivers.”
