The House of Representatives has called for the full implementation of the provisions of Nigeria’s extant Disability Act by state governments and all ministries, departments and agencies across the country.
Bashiru Dawodu, chairman of the House of Representatives committee on disability matters, while briefing newsmen on Tuesday, said denying individuals with disabilities access to public spaces was not only disrespectful but also undermines Nigeria’s extant Disability Act.
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The lawmaker condemned the reported outright discrimination against persons with disabilities in the country.
“The Discrimination Against People with Disabilities Prohibition Act 2018, passed by the National Assembly, aims to safeguard the rights of persons with disabilities.
“Recently, there have been distressing reports regarding the denial of access to Adebola Daniel at a KFC outlet in the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos.
“This discriminatory incident, highlighted by Daniel’s public account, sheds light on the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities in Nigeria.
Daniel is the physically challenged son of Gbenga Daniel, a former Ogun State governor and serving senator.
Daniel, who uses a wheelchair, faced humiliation when he was allegedly refused entry to KFC’s outlet, with the manager stating, “No wheelchair allowed”.
Daniel narrated his experience at the KFC outlet in a series of tweets on March 27, lamenting his humiliating moment and emphasised the broader consequences of such discriminatory actions.
He said that the committee was duty-bound to investigate the issue and other related matters.
“The case of Daniel is one in millions of other unreported cases of such abuses and injustices against people with disabilities.
“This will no longer be tolerated by the governments at all levels. Any establishments within the shores of our country irrespective of owners’ status should take note. Enough is enough.
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“Our committee is committed to engaging with communities to kick-start the full implementation of the Disability Act.”
The lawmaker said key provisions such as access to public buildings, employment quotas, and welfare promotion for persons with disabilities must be enforced to ensure their rights were upheld.
Dawodu said the current focus of the lawmakers was to enhance the lives of persons with disability and prevent future incidents like Daniel’s through robust implementation of the Disability Act.
