The Katsina State governor, Umar Dikko Radda has appointed Umar Jibril Bindawa as Special Assistant on Disability Matters.

This was disclosed in a letter signed by Abdullahi Garba Faskari, Secretary to the government of the State dated 3rd March, 2024.

Faskari noted that the appointment is based on the conviction that Bindawa will serve faithfully, diligently and in the best interest of the service.

While congratulating him on his appointment and wishing him a successful tenure, the Secretary urged Bindawa to indicate in writing a letter of acceptance of the appointment.

Umar Jibril Bindawa

In a statement made available to Inclusive News Network, the new SA on disability matters, Umar Jibril Bindawa, thanked Governor Radda for considering him worthy of the position and assured of his unwavering commitment to fulfilling the agenda of the government.

“I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to the betterment of our Disability Community, and I promise to do my utmost to make you proud.” He said.

Disability Not A Barrier Initiative (DINABI) has questioned the genuineness of KFC’s public apology, saying it lacks clarity.

The group expressed it’s disappointment in a tweet shared on X (formerly Twitter) yesterday.

The tweet reads, “Thank you for your belated apology that seems to lack genuineness and clarity.

“We are very disappointed that an organization of your caliber can continue to play with words on a matter of national interest like this.

“It is worthy of note that not a single word of “disability” is mentioned throughout your statement. Could this be termed as the level of hate and discrimination you nursed towards persons with disabilities? We certainly hope not.

“We wish to advise you to review or develop a disability-inclusive policy and publish same in national dailies as well on your website.

“We also urge you to conduct capacity building program for all your staff on disability inclusion as a matter of urgency.

“Furthermore, we hope you will also channel part of your CSR towards improving the lives of persons with disabilities in Nigeria.

“Finally, as much as we won’t support the sack of any staff, we certainly hope you will effect mild punishment on any erring staff to serve as deterrent to others.”

The group also added that the organisation is interested in training KFC staff on disability inclusive practices if they wish.

“We are interested in training your staff on disability inclusive practices if you wish.”

Sequel to the recent report of a case of discrimination against a person with disability making waves round the media involving the son of a former Governor of Ogun State, the National Commission for Persons With Disabilities has summoned the management of KFC to an investigation panel of enquiry to critically address the issues.

The summons was made available on Friday, 29th March, 2024 in a correspondence signed on behalf of the Commission by the Director of Enforcement and Compliance Department NCPWD, Ikem Uchegbulam Exq.

The Executive Secretary, National Commission for Persons With Disabilities, Dr. James David Lalu had directed that a panel be constituted to unravel the circumstances leading to the case of discrimination as well as examine the actions taken so far in order to forestall a similar occurrence in the future.

“The issue of discrimination is very serious and cannot be taken with levity irrespective of whoever is involved” he asserted.

The Executive Secretary hinted that the unfortunate incident which negates the provisions of section 1 of the Discrimination Against Persons With Disabilities 2018 (Prohibition) Act will serve as deterrent to others who still think it is business as usual in the maltreatment of Persons With Disabilities in Nigeria.

The meeting is scheduled to hold on the 4th April, 2024 at the Commission in Abuja with
adequate coverage by the press.

He, therefore, advised the management of KFC to honor the invitation with all sense of responsibility so as not to exacerbate the current situation.

The Bauchi State Association of the Deaf (BSAD) has congratulated Ibrahim Mohammed on his re-appointment as the Executive Chairman of the Bauchi State Agency for Persons with Disability,

In a statement signed by Dayyabu Tanimu Azare, the Secretary General of the Association, the group said Mohammed’s reappointment did not come as a surprise because of his hard work and dedication towards uplifting the lives of Persons with Disability. He has been a beacon of purpose and unmatched progress and this has earned him the unwavering trust of Bauchi State governor, Sen. Bala Muhammad.

“As you embark on this second term journey together with Governor Bala, we pray for wisdom in discharging your duties and always remember to whom much is given, much is expected” statement reads.

INN reports that on Monday Bauchi state governor approved the appointment of Chairmen, Members for 59 parastatals/agencies including the re-appointment of Ibrahim Mohammed, the former board chairman of disability agency into his second term.

Persons with disabilities have praised the Vice Chancellor of Confluence University of Science and Technology (CUSTECH) Osara, Professor Abdulrahman Asipita Salawu, for assuring inclusiveness and accessibility for persons with disabilities in the institution.

This was disclosed in a statement signed by Yakubu Nazir Abdulhakeem, President of Kogi Central Persons with Disabilities Association.

The group noted that they were encouraged by the professor’s promise of inclusiveness and accessibility in the school.

According to them, “the professor’s words have given us hope and confidence for a more inclusive and accommodating environment for PWDs at CUSTECH.

The President of Kogi Central Person’s with Disabilities Association; Comr Yakubu Nazir Abdulhakeem also appreciated the professor’s empowering perspective on disability, emphasizing that we are all able individuals, albeit with physical challenges. “This mindset is truly empowering and we believe it will foster a more inclusive and supportive community at the institution.”

“As an association, we extend our prayers and best wishes to Professor Abdulrahman Asipita Salawu, asking for God’s guidance as he leads the Confluence University of Science and Technology (CUSTECH) Osara. We pray for his wisdom and vision to steer the institution towards becoming one of the best in Nigeria and beyond, with a strong commitment to inclusivity and accessibility for all. We are optimistic that under his leadership, CUSTECH will become a shining example of an inclusive educational institution.

“Once again, we thank Professor Abdulrahman Asipita Salawu for his warm reception and his commitment to promoting inclusiveness for persons with disabilities at CUSTECH. We look forward to a future of equal opportunities and support for all members of the CUSTECH community.” He said

Mrs Betsy Obaseki, the First Lady of Edo State, has assured that Governor Godwin Obaseki will establish a commission for persons with disabilities before the end of his administration.

She gave the assurance while commemorating International Women’s Day organised by Women’s wing of the Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities (JONAPWD) Edo State chapter sponsored with funding from Edo State JONAPWD.

Represented by Commissioner for Social Development and Gender Issues, Mrs Christabel Omon Ekwu, the first lady promised to use her office to promote, protect and include women with disabilities in Edo State.

She assured women with disabilities of the state government’s continuous support to persons with disabilities.

In her remarks the women leader of the Association, Mrs Dele Atole Charity encouraged women with disabilities to put their disabilities behind them and move forward to achieve greater heights with self determination.

Ann Ojugo, chairman of JONAPWD Edo state chapter

Earlier, Ms Ann Ojugo, chairman of JONAPWD Edo state chapter, welcomed all participants including the Hon. Commissioner, Mrs Christabel Omon Ekwu, and other guests for coming over to celebrate with women with disabilities in Edo State despite their tight schedule.

Ojugo made these requests to the State government amongst other things, the establishment of the disability commission, provision of skill acquisition, more empowerment packages and employment for Women with disabilities.

She admonished women with disabilities to make themselves available for inclusion into the society by working on their mentality putting up a positive attitude, dropping the spirit of self pity and low self esteem.

Highlight of the event was the presentation of cash grants to some women to boost their businesses.

INN reports that the wife of Edo state Governor through the ministry of Social Development and Gender Issues had earlier empowered four women with disabilities alongside other women when the State government celebrated International Women’s Day on the 8th of March, 2024.

The Lagos State Office for Disability Affairs (LASODA) has issued a strong condemnation of an incident involving discrimination against Mr. Debola Daniel, a wheelchair user, at a KFC restaurant in Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, on March 27, 2024.

The incident, which has gained widespread attention online, highlights the ongoing challenges faced by persons with disabilities in accessing public spaces and services.

In a statement released, LASODA emphasized its commitment to defending the rights of persons with disabilities in Lagos State and assured the public that discriminatory practices, such as the one experienced by Mr. Daniel, are entirely unacceptable and contravene the agency’s mission to promote an inclusive and accessible society for all.

The agency encourages anyone who has faced similar discriminatory treatment to come forward and report these incidents to their office. LASODA’s General Manager, Mrs. Adenike Oyetunde-Lawal, reiterated the agency’s dedication to creating a barrier-free environment in Lagos State that respects the dignity and rights of every individual, regardless of their physical ability.

This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of continuing to fight for equality and inclusivity, ensuring that all members of society, especially those with disabilities, receive the respect and access they rightfully deserve.

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.”

In line with Lagos State law on People with Special Needs, Part C , section 55 of General Provisions on Discrimination which states that,” A person shall not deprive another person of access to any place, vehicle or facility that members of the public are entitled to enter or use on the basis of the disability of that person”, the management of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has closed the KFC facility at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos with effect from March 28, 2024.

This is in response to a social media report by a wheelchair user, Mr. Demola Daniel, son of the former Ogun State governor Otunba Gbenga Daniel, alleging discriminatory treatment he received at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos.

The MD/CE of FAAN, Mrs Olubunmi, Kuku in a statement signed intervened swiftly by deploying a management team comprising the Director, Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Mrs Obiageli Orah, the Regional Manager South West, Mr Sunday Ayodele, Ag. General Manager Public Affairs, Mrs Ijeoma Nwosu-Igbo and the International Terminal Manager, Mr Kerri, to investigate the allegation.

It is based on the findings of the team that FAAN has shut down the KFC facility at the MMA, where the incident occurred.

The Authority has instructed that the KFC Management should tender an unreserved apology, in writing, to the affected “Passenger with Reduced Mobility (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.

FAAN expressed unreserved apology to the affected Passenger with Reduced Mobility and assures all airport users that they shall continue to work tirelessly to ensure that the rights of every passenger are not infringed upon.

The Senior Special Assistant to the President on Special Needs and Equal Opportunities, Mohammed Abba Isa, has expressed deep concern and condemnation regarding the discriminatory incident that transpired on March 27, 2024, at a KFC restaurant located within the departure hall of Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos State.

Mr. Debola Daniel, a wheelchair user, was unjustly denied access to the lounge area of the aforementioned KFC establishment. Such discriminatory conduct is utterly unacceptable and violates the fundamental rights and dignity of individuals with disabilities.

The office of the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Special Needs and Equal Opportunities in a statement released on Thursday said “it is committed to upholding the rights of all citizens, including those with disabilities, and will not tolerate any form of discrimination or marginalization.”

It added that the presidency stands in solidarity with Mr. Debola Daniel and all individuals who face similar acts of prejudice and injustice.

“We hereby pledge to vigorously pursue this matter until the narrative is changed, and redress is found. Additionally, the office has transmitted a letter to the KFC demanding a public apology to be published in national dailies for their perverse discrimination and misconduct. Failure to heed this demand will compel the office of the Senior Special Assistant to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to take serious action to redress the matter.

“Discrimination against persons with disabilities has no place in our society, and we call upon all stakeholders to join us in ensuring equal access and opportunities for all. Let us work together to create a more inclusive and equitable Nigeria.”