KFC Nigeria Apologizes for Discrimination Against Disabled Client
LAGOS — In a shocking turn of events, KFC Nigeria has issued a public apology after one of its outlets was shut down by the country’s airport authority due to the alleged discrimination of a disabled client.
The Incident
Adebola Daniel, son of former Nigerian state governor Gbenga Daniel, took to social media to share his harrowing experience at a KFC outlet at Lagos airport. He recounted how he was ordered to leave the premises because of his wheelchair, sparking widespread outrage and condemnation.
In a detailed post, Mr. Daniel described the incident as “the worst sort of public humiliation” he had ever endured, feeling “less than human” and “lonely and isolated.”
The Fallout
Following an investigation by the federal airport authority, the KFC branch at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport was forced to close its doors. The manager of the outlet allegedly denied service to Mr. Daniel, despite pleas from his wife and brothers who were accompanying him.
An audio clip captured after the incident revealed the manager defending the decision, claiming that wheelchairs were not allowed in the restaurant as per company policy.
KFC’s Response
In response to the public outcry and the subsequent closure of the outlet, KFC Nigeria issued a formal apology to Mr. Daniel and announced plans to address the situation. This includes training employees on inclusion and empathetic customer service.
The apology came after the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) ordered KFC to display a non-discrimination policy at the restaurant as a condition for reopening, emphasizing the need for equal treatment of all customers.
FAAN’s intervention highlights the importance of upholding the rights of disabled individuals and ensuring that businesses adhere to anti-discrimination practices. KFC’s swift response and commitment to change serve as a reminder of the power of public accountability in promoting inclusivity and respect for all patrons.
