Foundation lauds FG’s action to curb discrimination against PLWDs

A non-profit organization that raises awareness of disabilities and other health concerns, Asmau Ali Foundation, has commended the federal government for taking a decisive measure to address the reported discrimination and uphold the rights of persons with disabilities.

In a statement issued to journalists in Abuja, the foundation’s Chief Executive Officer, Miss Asmau Ali, said the government’s move was commendable as it promotes inclusivity as well as combat discrimination in the society.

The development followed a social media report by a Passenger with Reduced Mobility (PRM), Debola Daniel, on March 27, alleging discriminatory treatment he received at the KFC outlet, located at MMIA, in Lagos.

The House of Representatives Committee on Disabilities on Tuesday invited fast-food restaurant operator, Kentucky Fried Chicken, over the alleged ill-treatment of Mr Adebola Daniel, a person living with disability and son of a former Ogun State governor, Senator Gbenga Daniel.

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The chairman of the committee, Bashiru Ayinla, disclosed this while briefing House of Representatives correspondents at the National Assembly Complex, Abuja.

Similarly, the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities said it had also summoned the fast-food restaurant over the matter.

Earlier, the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), in a statement by its Director, Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Mrs Obiageli Orah, ordered the shutdown of a branch of a popular food outlet, Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC), at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA), Lagos State, where the incident occurred.

FAAN also instructed that the KFC Management should tender an unreserved apology, in writing, to the affected PRM and a policy statement of non-discrimination be written and pasted conspicuously at the door post of their facility at MMIA before it resumes operation.

In the statement, Asmau Ali, said that discriminations against people living with  disabilities not only violate basic human rights but also go against the principles of equality and respect for diversity that are fundamental to the Nigerian society.