House to Ramp up Efforts for Implementation of Disability Act
Gloria Essien, Abuja
The House of Representatives is to begin the implementation of the Disability Act passed into law as the grace period expires.
The decision followed the denial of access to Mr. Adebola Daniel at a KFC outlet in the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos.
Briefing journalists in Abuja, Chairman, House Committee on Disability, Hon. Dr Bashiru Dawodu, said that the discriminatory incident, highlighted by Mr. Daniel’s public account, sheds light on the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities in Nigeria.
“Mr. Daniel, a wheelchair user, faced humiliation when he was refused entry to the KFC outlet, with the manager stating, “No Wheelchairs Allowed.” This treatment is unacceptable and goes against the principles of inclusivity and respect. And it is a violation against Disability Act.” Dawodu said.
He said that if Mr Adebola Daniel, son of former Ogun State Governor and serving senator, Gbenga Daniel, could undergo such treatment, what others go through can only be imagined.
“As the Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Disability Matters, I strongly condemn such actions. Denying individuals with disabilities access to public spaces is not only disrespectful but also undermines ongoing efforts to implement the Disability Act.
The committee is duty bound to investigate this issue and other related matters. The case of Mr Adebola Daniel is one in millions of other unreported cases of such abuses and injustices against people with disabilities. This will no longer be tolerated by the governments at all levels. Any establishments within shore of our country irrespective of owners’ status should take note. Enough is enough,” he said.
He said that the discrimination against People with Disabilities Prohibition Act 2018, passed by the National Assembly, aims to safeguard the rights of persons with disabilities. However, compliance with this Act has been lacking since the grace period ended in January.
“I commend the Speaker of the House of Representatives for establishing the committee on disability matters and the proactive responses from the Federal and Lagos State governments in protecting the rights of Persons With Disabilities (PWDs).
It is imperative that all stakeholders, including businesses, adhere to the provisions of the Disability Act. Our committee is committed to engaging with communities to kick start the full implementation of the Disability Act.
Key provisions such as access to public buildings, employment quotas, and welfare promotion for persons with disabilities must be enforced to ensure their rights are upheld,” the lawmaker said.
Hon Dawodu also commended the timely responses and actions from the Asiwaju-led Federal government and Lagos State government and other stakeholders towards protecting the rights of PWDs.
He noted that the Committee would continue to closely monitor government agencies’ adherence to the law, particularly in areas such as recruitment, housing, transportation, and healthcare.
” The National Assembly has the authority to oversee the enforcement of laws, including the Disabilities Act. Our committee will monitor government agencies’ compliance with the Act in various sectors like recruitment, housing, transportation, and healthcare,” he stated.
He stressed that the focus of the committee is on enhancing the lives of persons with disabilities and preventing incidents like Mr. Daniel’s through robust implementation of the Disability Act.
He however called on state governments to domesticate the Disability Act as led by Lagos State to draw attention to the systemic challenges faced by individuals with disabilities in Nigeria.
“Being disabled often rolls over my spirit, leaving behind a trail of shattered dignity and forgotten humanity. Nowhere more so than in Nigeria,” Debola wrote.
Mr. Adebola Daniel had recounted his experience at the KFC outlet of the airport in a series of tweets posted via his X handle, @DebolaDaniel, where he lamented his humiliating moment and emphasised the broader consequences of such discriminatory actions.
Lateefah Ibrahim
