FAAN Has Taken Decisive Action Against KFC

Read Time:2 Minute, 26 Second

The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has taken decisive action against KFC, a renowned food outlet, at the Murtala Muhammed Airport in Lagos State, following allegations of discrimination against a physically challenged individual, specifically the son of a former governor.

In a statement released by FAAN’s Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Mrs. Obiageli Orah, titled ‘FAAN shuts down KFC outlet at MMIA,’ it was outlined that the closure of the establishment was in direct violation of Lagos State laws protecting the rights of People with Special Needs, as stated in Part C, Section 55 of General Provisions on Discrimination.

The catalyst for this action was a social media report by a Passenger with Reduced Mobility (PRM), detailing the discriminatory treatment he encountered at the airport. FAAN swiftly launched an investigation, deploying a management team led by Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku, the MD/CE of FAAN, to probe the matter thoroughly.

FAAN Has Taken Decisive Action Against KFC As It Shuts Down KFC Amid Discrimination as Victim’s Tweets Expose Humiliating Ordeal for Disabled Individuals

A picture combination of KFC and the discriminated victim

Based on the team’s findings, FAAN made the decision to shut down the KFC facility where the incident occurred, pending certain conditions for its reopening. These conditions include a written apology to the affected PRM from KFC management, along with a policy statement visibly displayed at the facility affirming their commitment to non-discrimination.

Adebola Daniel, the victim of the discriminatory incident and son of the former Ogun State Governor, Gbenga Daniel, recounted his distressing experience through a series of tweets. He described feeling profoundly humiliated by the ordeal, emphasizing the challenges faced by disabled individuals in Nigeria and the isolating impact of such discrimination.

Daniel’s detailed account highlighted how, despite his familiarity with airport procedures as a frequent flyer, he was denied access to the KFC outlet due to his wheelchair. The refusal of entry by the outlet’s manager led to a heated exchange, further exacerbating the distress of Daniel and his companions.

KFC Responds to Discrimination Allegations with Commitment to Inclusivity, Prompting FAAN and Local Authorities to Combat Disability Discrimination

In response to the allegations, KFC acknowledged the incident via its official Twitter handle, reaffirming its commitment to inclusivity and respect. The company pledged immediate action, including sensitivity training for employees, to address the situation and prevent future occurrences.

The General Manager of the Lagos State Office for Disability Affairs, Mrs. Adenike Oyetunde-Lawal, condemned the discrimination faced by Daniel and reiterated the agency’s commitment to upholding the rights of persons with disabilities. She urged individuals who experience discrimination to report such incidents for appropriate action.

FAAN’s swift action and the subsequent responses from KFC and relevant authorities underscore the importance of combating discrimination against persons with disabilities and ensuring inclusivity and respect in public spaces. This incident serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggle for equality and dignity for all individuals, irrespective of their physical abilities.