The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has condemned the discrimination against Mr Debola Daniel, a rights advocate, by a fast-food outlet, KFC, at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, due to his physical state.
Daniel, son of a former Ogun State Governor and serving senator for Ogun East, Gbenga Daniel, shared his ordeal in a series of tweets on X on Thursday.
Daniel recounted how he, along with his family, was publicly humiliated when the manager of the KFC outlet declared to them when he entered the facility, ‘NO WHEELCHAIRS ALLOWED’.
The FCCPC, in a statement by Dr Adamu Abdullahi, its acting Executive Vice Chairman, in Abuja, on Thursday, said the commission would work with relevant authorities to ensure appropriate redress for the aggrieved consumer.
Abdullahi said the commission would also ensure that the KFC outlet took full responsibility for their action.
He said that Section 17 of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act (FCCPA), emphasises the obligation to eliminate practices detrimental to competition and consumer welfare to safeguard consumer interests.
Abdullahi said that discriminatory actions, such as those witnessed at the KFC outlet, undermined their principles and would not be tolerated.
”Discrimination against persons with disability is not only unlawful but also inhumane and contrary to the values that we, as a society, hold dear.
”The FCCPC commends the swift action reportedly taken by the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria in shutting down the KFC outlet.
”We fully support its directive for the restaurant to issue a written apology to the affected individual and implement a clear non-discrimination policy displayed prominently for all customers.
”We will closely monitor developments and take appropriate actions in accordance with the provisions of the FCCPA.
”This incident serves as a reminder to all businesses operating in Nigeria that consumer protection laws apply equally, regardless of a customer’s ability,” he said.
Abdullahi said the commission remained steadfast in its commitment to ensuring that all consumers, irrespective of their physical abilities were treated with dignity and respect.
The commission encouraged consumers who had faced similar discriminatory practices to come forward and report them through their designated channels.
”We stand firm in our commitment to promoting a fair and inclusive marketplace for all Nigerians.
”The commission will continue to take all necessary steps to ensure that the rights of consumers, including those with disability are upheld and protected,” he said.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that KFC Nigeria in a statement on X, expressed its commitment to inclusivity and respect as non-negotiable pillars of their values.
”This recent incident has underscored the pressing need for immediate action.
”We have embarked on efforts to address the situation. We deeply regret the frustration and distress experienced by our guest and extend sincere apologies to those affected,” it said.
KFC had also announced plans to urgently implement inclusivity training for all its employees to prevent similar incidents. (NAN)
