The ongoing online rivalry between South African and Nigerian netizens has escalated into the “Bolt for Bolt” trend as both sides engage in a new battle.

What began as a prank by South Africans, booking and cancelling Bolt and Uber rides in Nigeria, has turned into a full-fledged feud. Nigerians are now retaliating by targeting drivers in South Africa, causing lost time and income.

Yahaya Mohammed, Country Manager for Bolt Nigeria, told Techpoint Africa, “Bolt is aware of the fake ride request incident between some individuals in Nigeria and South Africa. We have taken measures to resolve the issue, particularly for our driver-partners in both countries. The integrity and safety of our platform is our utmost priority.”

In response, Bolt implemented enhanced security measures, including limiting inter-country ride requests and blocking offenders. However, the feud continues to intensify, with netizens on both sides refusing to back down.

On X, @elcoweygetloco warned, “Hope they know Nigerians are jobless. They shouldn’t allow Nigerians to play this game with them because Nigerians will really take it far.”

@AjeboDanny wrote, “South Africans keep telling Nigerians to leave their country, yet they harass Bolt drivers in Nigeria. It’s not about hating Nigerians abroad, they just hate that Nigerians are doing better.”

@MhlangaLindo expressed concern, “We are stirring a pot we won’t be able to lift. These toxic accounts are fueling hate, and instead of pressing the authorities to handle these crimes, they are messing with innocent lives.”
Meanwhile, @dammiedammie35 added, “No country can beat us in online bant. South Africans don’t understand that. A united Nigeria is a dangerous Nigeria. Let me go order a van to Cape Town.”