A troubling case of discrimination unfolded on Saturday, April 5, 2025 at BTQ Supermarket, in Olorunda, Osun State, when Mr. Ayoola Oguntile, a physical disability shoemaker affiliated with the Olorunda Skill Acquisition Center, was publicly humiliated and denied entry by a security personnel while attempting to purchase bread.
The incident left Mr. Oguntile visibly distressed and quickly drew the attention of local disability advocates and security officials. In response to the report, a coalition of concerned individuals including Alpha Adetiba, Chairman of the Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities (JONAPWD) in Olorunda; Mrs. Abdullahi Funmilayo, a prominent Disability Rights Activist; and NSCDC Division Officer Mrs. Abimbola Kahdijat, intervened to address the matter.
Operational Officer Wuraola Reuben was dispatched to the scene and acted swiftly to mediate the situation. The manager of BTQ Supermarket issued a formal apology and committed the supermarket to a written letter of apology, acknowledging the distress caused. Several customers who witnessed the event also expressed their regret and offered apologies to Mr. Oguntile.
In a formal letter of apology addressed to the Association of People with Disabilities, Osogbo, and signed by BTQ Management—a copy of which was received by Inclusive News Network—the supermarket manager deeply apologized for the way Mr. Oguntile was treated by their security staff and assured that such treatment would not happen again.
In a statement, Mrs. Abdullahi Funmilayo thanked the NSCDC, JONAPWD Olorunda Chapter, and members of the public for their swift support and solidarity. She emphasized the broader implications of the incident, saying: “This incident highlights the importance of inclusivity and respect for individuals with disabilities. We urge the public to recognize that disability does not diminish one’s humanity.”
The incident has since reignited calls for better disability awareness and training across public-facing institutions in Osun State and beyond.
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