By Taiwo Adebowale, Senior Business Correspondent
IKEJA, Lagos — The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has taken decisive action against discrimination targeting individuals living with disabilities. In a bold move, FAAN shut down a KFC outlet located at the Murtala Muhammed Airport, Lagos State, for violating laws protecting the rights of persons living with disabilities. This action followed a distressing incident involving Adebola Daniel, a wheelchair user and son of former Ogun State Governor, Gbenga Daniel, who encountered discriminatory treatment at the outlet.
The decision to close the KFC facility was announced by FAAN’s Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Mrs. Obiageli Orah, in response to a social media report by Adebola Daniel detailing his humiliating experience at the airport. According to the report, Daniel, accompanied by family members, was denied entry into the KFC outlet on the grounds of his disability. This blatant act of discrimination sparked outrage and prompted swift action from FAAN.
FAAN’s intervention was guided by Lagos State laws protecting the rights of persons with special needs, particularly Section 55 of the General Provisions on Discrimination. This legal framework prohibits depriving individuals of access to public places or facilities based on disability. The closure of the KFC outlet serves as a clear message that discriminatory practices will not be tolerated in Nigeria’s public spaces.
Adebola Daniel shared his ordeal on social media, describing it as “the worst sort of public humiliation” he had ever experienced. Despite being a frequent traveler familiar with airport procedures, Daniel faced hostility and exclusion at the KFC outlet. His account shed light on the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities in Nigeria, where societal attitudes often marginalize and dehumanize them.
The swift response from FAAN reflects a commitment to upholding the rights and dignity of all individuals, irrespective of disability status. By holding businesses accountable for discriminatory behavior, FAAN sends a powerful message about inclusivity and respect for diversity. The closure of the KFC outlet serves as a wake-up call for businesses to prioritize accessibility and eliminate barriers for persons living with disabilities.
In response to the allegations of discrimination, KFC issued a statement reaffirming its commitment to inclusivity and respect for all customers. The company expressed regret over the incident and outlined steps to address the situation, including sensitivity training for employees. While KFC’s response is a positive step towards rectifying the issue, it underscores the need for continuous vigilance and proactive measures to prevent discrimination.
The Lagos State Office for Disability Affairs (LASODA) also weighed in on the matter, condemning the discriminatory actions and emphasizing the importance of upholding the rights of persons with disabilities. LASODA reaffirmed its commitment to promoting inclusivity and accessibility in Lagos State, urging individuals to report incidents of discrimination for prompt action.
Overall, the closure of the KFC outlet serves as a landmark moment in the fight against discrimination in Nigeria. It highlights the importance of creating a more inclusive society where every individual, regardless of disability, is treated with dignity and respect. As the nation continues to strive for progress, it is imperative that businesses and institutions prioritize accessibility and embrace diversity to build a more equitable future for all.
