The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) took swift action by closing down a KFC outlet at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) in Lagos due to discriminatory practices.
FAAN’s Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Obiageli Orah, announced the immediate closure, effective Thursday, March 28, 2024..
“In line with Lagos State law on People with Special Needs, Part C, section 55 of General Provisions on Discrimination which states that, ‘A person shall not deprive another person of access to any place, vehicle or facility that members of the public are entitled to enter or use on the basis of the disability of that person,’ the management of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has closed the KFC facility at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos with effect from March 28, 2024,” the statement read.
“This is as a result of a social media report by a passenger with Reduced Mobility (PRM ), alleging discriminatory treatment he received at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos.”
FAAN said it had instructed, “the KFC Management should tender an unreserved apology, in writing, to the affected PRM and a policy statement of non-discrimination be written and pasted conspicuously at the door post of their facility at MMIA before it resumes operation”.
Adebola Daniel, who is the victim and the son of a former Ogun State governor, Gbenga Daniel, narrated his experience at the KFC outlet in a series of posts on his X handle.
He described it as “the worst sort of public humiliation” he had ever faced.
“Today I chose KFC – what a colossal mistake. I entered the restaurant with 4 other travel companions consisting of my brothers and wife,” part of his post read.
“The security personnel at KFC, Samuel, greeted me by name as I’ve been there multiple times. Just as we were about to sit, the lady at the till – who was apparently the manager – called out loudly, ‘NO WHEELCHAIRS ALLOWED’.”
But KFC said the treatment does not reflect its standards and will act swiftly to rectify it”.
“KFC is unwavering in our stance against bias or discrimination in any form, with inclusivity and respect as non-negotiable pillars of our values. However, this recent incident has underscored the pressing need for immediate action. We have embarked on efforts to address the situation,” KFC Nigeria wrote on its X platform Thursday afternoon.
“We deeply regret the frustration and distress experienced by our guest and extend sincere apologies to those affected. In response, we are urgently implementing inclusion training for all our employees. This incident is not reflective of our standards, and we will act swiftly to rectify it. We are actively exploring actions to equip our team members and restaurants better to ensure that every guest feels genuinely welcomed and that we deliver empathetic customer service that proactively addresses the diverse needs of each guest.”
