The Federal House of Representatives Committee on Disabilities has summoned the operators of Kentucky Fried Chicken over the mistreatment of Mr. Adebola Daniel, a person living with a disability and the son of former Ogun State Governor, Senator Gbenga Daniel.
Chairman of the Committee, Bashiru Ayinla, affirmed the committee’s commitment to ensuring justice under the Disability Act, stating, “We will go the whole distance to ensure those found in breach face the law.”
Adebola’s ordeal, where he was denied access to a KFC outlet, sparked outrage, with the manager reportedly saying, “No wheelchair allowed.”
“This incident sheds light on the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities in Nigeria, violating principles of inclusivity and respect,” Ayinla stated.
In a series of tweets, Adebola shared his anguish, saying, “Being disabled often rolls over my spirit, leaving behind a trail of shattered dignity and forgotten humanity.”
Ayinla stressed the pervasive nature of discrimination against persons with disabilities and vowed to enforce the Disability Act’s provisions, urging state governments to follow Lagos State’s lead in domesticating the Act.
Addressing journalists, he dismissed claims of bias, asserting, “If it takes Daniel’s son to make our committee’s work known, so be it.”
Following public outcry, the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) ordered the immediate closure of the KFC outlet, demanding conditions for its reopening.
In response, KFC issued a public apology to Adebola, marking a step towards rectifying the discrimination faced by persons with disabilities.
