FAAN has taken swift action in response to reports of discrimination at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport. Following an incident involving Adebola Daniel, a wheelchair user and the son of former Ogun State Governor, Gbenga Daniel, the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) decided to close down a KFC outlet located within the airport premises.
Daniel recounted feeling degraded during his visit to the restaurant on Wednesday, March 27, 2024. He, along with his wife and siblings, was told to leave by a restaurant manager citing a “No wheelchairs allowed” policy.
Expressing his frustration, Daniel highlighted the challenges faced by people with disabilities in Nigeria, emphasizing the profound sense of isolation and exclusion. The fact that such treatment occurred at an international brand like KFC within an international airport like Murtala Muhammed Airport, Lagos, underscored the severity of the situation.
In response to the public outcry, Minister of Aviation, Festus Keyamo, announced the closure of the restaurant through an official statement on Thursday, March 28, 2024. This decision was made in accordance with laws prohibiting discrimination against individuals based on their disabilities.
FAAN, under the leadership of MD/CE Olubunmi Kuku, swiftly initiated an investigation into Daniel’s allegations. The investigative team, led by Kuku and comprising officials like Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Obiageli Orah, and Regional Manager South West, Sunday Ayodele, confirmed the veracity of the claims.
Subsequently, FAAN took decisive action by closing down the KFC facility. Additionally, the management of KFC was directed to issue a written apology to Daniel and publicly display a non-discrimination policy statement at their establishment’s entrance within the airport premises before resuming operations.
