The National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD), a governmental body entrusted with safeguarding the welfare and well-being of all Nigerians with Disabilities, has vehemently opposes any forms of discrimination against Persons with Disabilities.
The statement was released on Thursday in response to the discrimination against Mr Debola Daniel, a wheelchair user by KFC at international airport.
INN reports that Debola Daniel was denied access to a KFC branch at Murtala Mohammed Airport, Lagos due to his disability.
The commission, in the statement, urged individuals and public organizations to uphold the values of equality and inclusion enshrined in the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (as amended), which guarantees equal civil rights for all Nigerians regardless of disability, ethnicity, or any other factor.
The statement reads in part; “In response to the regrettable acts of discrimination experienced by a member of the disability community on 27th March 2024 at a public establishment, which the Commission unequivocally condemns, we wish to inform the establishment in question and all public establishments that Acts of Discrimination against persons with Disabilities are punishable under the law. Nigeria has taken a firm stance on matters affecting persons with disabilities through the enactment of legal frameworks to safeguard their rights. We stand ready to support our community members in utilizing all available legal options to guarantee their rights.
“Furthermore, the Discrimination Against Persons with Disability (Prohibition) Act of 2018 provides for the full integration of persons with disabilities into society. This Act not only prohibits discrimination but also mandates accessibility of public spaces and services for persons with disabilities. Section 3 and 4 of the Disability Act affirm the rights of persons with disabilities to access the physical environment and buildings on an equal basis with others, and stipulate that public buildings and structures shall be constructed with necessary accessibility aids such as lifts, ramps, and any other facilities to ensure usability by persons with disabilities. It is noteworthy that a 5-year transition period was provided from January 2018 to January 2024 to allow sufficient time for compliance. As of January 17th, 2024, the provisions of the Act on non-compliance to accessibility became enforceable without exceptions. Section 8 subsection 1 of the Act further provides for the right to seek redress in court and imposes penalties for non-compliance.
“Discrimination against any Nigerian with Disability is not only illegal but also undermines the unity of our society. The NCPWD calls upon all Nigerians and institutions, both public and private, to strictly adhere to the provisions of the Discrimination Against Persons with Disability (Prohibition) Act to ensure a truly inclusive society.
“The NCPWD is committed to promoting a society free from discrimination in alignment with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to inclusion, representation, and participation of persons with disabilities in all aspects of development. The Federal Government stands ready to support all persons with disabilities to exercise their rights as full citizens of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. For more information about the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and the NCPWD, visit our website at www.ncpwd.gov.ng. Additionally, acts of discrimination can be reported to the nearest Nigerian Civil Defense Corps office. To report directly to the Commission, contact us via email at info@ncpwd.gov.ng or call us at 07000062793.”