By Joke Kujenya
FOLLOWING the distressing incident involving Debola Daniel, son of former Ogun State Governor, Otunba Gbenga Daniel, at the Murtala Muhammad International Airport (MMA), in Lagos, the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), has taken decisive action by shutting down the defaulting Ken Turkey Fried Chicken (KFC), at the airdrome.
Debola Daniel, a person with reduced mobility, voiced his concerns over the neglect of physically challenged individuals in Nigeria. His X(Twitter) thread shed light on the daily struggles faced by disabled Nigerians, particularly regarding accessibility in public spaces and events.
Reacting promptly to the incident, FAAN announced the immediate closure of the KFC outlet at MMIA.
Mrs. Obiagheli Orah, Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, FAAN, stated that the closure was in accordance with Lagos State Law on People with Special needs, especially citing Part C, Section 55, which prohibits discrimination based on disability.
The intervention came after Debola Daniel’s experience, where he faced discriminatory treatment from KFC staff at the airport.
FAAN promptly deployed a management team to investigate the matter led by Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku, the Managing Director.
The subsequent findings led to the closure of KFC outlet where the incident occurred.
In addition to the closure FAAN mandated KFC management to issue a written apology to the affected passenger and display a policy statement against discrimination prominently at the facility before resuming operations.
Expressing remorse over the incident, FAAN assured all airport users of their commitment to upholding the rights of every passenger and coved to continue working diligently to prevent similar occurrences in the near or far future.
Already, Debola Daniel’s ordeal has sparked important conversations about inclusivity and accessibility for disabled individuals in Nigeria, highlighting the urgent need for systemic changes to ensure equal treatment and opportunities for all citizens and foreigners alike.
