Bolt Takes Action Against Pranksters Amid "Bolt War" Between Nigeria and South Africa

Ride-hailing giant Bolt has taken swift action to restrict ride requests between Nigeria and South Africa following a social media-fueled prank war that left drivers caught in the crossfire. The company identified and blocked users involved in booking and canceling rides as a joke, apologizing for the impact on drivers.

Credit: Vanguard

The "Bolt war" saw individuals from both countries engaging in a malicious game of booking rides with no intention of using them, sending drivers on futile trips across borders. This prank not only wasted drivers' time but also drained their resources, particularly in Nigeria where fuel prices have skyrocketed.

While the origins of the "Bolt war" are unclear, social media users in Nigeria and South Africa have a history of engaging in online trolling. However, many have condemned this particular prank, highlighting the unfairness of targeting hardworking drivers struggling to make a living.

Credit: Bolt

Bolt's swift response aims to protect its drivers from further exploitation and maintain the integrity of its service. The company's actions serve as a reminder of the importance of responsible behavior on social media platforms and the need to consider the real-life consequences of online actions.