A popular fast-food chain, KFC, has come under fire after a Nigerian man with a disability was denied entry to their outlet at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos. The incident, which sparked outrage online, led to the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) shutting down the outlet.
The man, Adebola Daniel, son of a former governor, recounted his ordeal on social media, describing it as the “worst sort of public humiliation” he had ever experienced. Daniel, who uses a wheelchair, said he was told by a manager that “wheelchairs are not allowed” at the establishment.
Swift Action Taken
FAAN responded swiftly to the viral social media post, launching an investigation and subsequently closing down the KFC outlet. The Authority stated that the closure was in line with a Lagos State law prohibiting discrimination against people with disabilities.
The statement, titled, ‘FAAN shuts down KFC outlet at MMIA,’ noted that the food outlet violated the Lagos State law on People with Special Needs, Part C, Section 55 of General Provisions on Discrimination.
It read, “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 as a result of a social media report by a Passenger with Reduced Mobility (PRM), alleging discriminatory treatment he received at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos.
“The MD/CE of FAAN, Mrs Olubunmi, Kuku 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.”
FAAN said, “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 added that KFC management must issue a written apology to Daniel and implement a non-discrimination policy before being allowed to reopen.
Apology Issued
KFC Nigeria, in a response via its social media handle, expressed regret for the incident. “KFC is unwavering in our stance against bias or discrimination in any form, with inclusivity and respect as non-negotiable pillars of our values,” the statement said.
The statement continued, “We have embarked on efforts to address the situation and extend apologies and deeply regret the frustration and distress experienced by our guest.” The fast-food chain also announced mandatory sensitivity training for all its employees.
Disability Rights Advocates Speak Out
The Lagos State Office for Disability Affairs (LASODA) also weighed in on the incident, condemning the act of discrimination. The agency’s General Manager, Mrs. Adenike Oyetunde-Lawal, said, “Every individual, regardless of their disability, deserves to be treated with dignity and respect.”
LASODA encouraged anyone experiencing discrimination based on disability to report such incidents. Also, the agency remains committed to creating a more inclusive and accessible society for all.
Source: Punch
