FAAN shuts down KFC for discrimination against physically-challenged passenger

The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has shut down down a branch of the popular food outlet, KFC, at the Murtala Muhammed Airport in Lagos State. This decision came after the outlet was found to have violated Lagos State laws on People with Special Needs, specifically Part C, Section 55 of General Provisions on Discrimination.

A statement signed by FAAN’s Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Mrs. Obiageli Orah, announced the closure on Thursday, titled ‘FAAN Shuts Down KFC Outlet at MMIA.’

The directive followed a report on social media by a Passenger with Reduced Mobility (PRM), alleging discriminatory treatment at the airport.

“In line with Lagos State law on People with Special Needs, FAAN has closed the KFC facility at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos, effective from March 28, 2024,” the statement read.

FAAN’s Managing Director/Chief Executive, Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku, promptly deployed a management team to investigate the allegations. The team included the Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Mrs. Obiageli Orah; the Regional Manager South West, Mr. Sunday Ayodele; Ag. General Manager Public Affairs, Mrs. Ijeoma Nwosu-Igbo; and the International Terminal Manager, Mr. Kerri.

“It is based on the findings of the team that FAAN has shut down the KFC facility at the MMA, where the incident occurred,” the statement continued.

The authority further instructed KFC’s management to issue an unreserved written apology to the affected Passenger with Reduced Mobility (PRM). They also demanded that a policy statement of non-discrimination be written and prominently displayed at the entrance of the facility at MMIA before it resumes operations.

FAAN expressed its regret to the affected PRM and assured all airport users of their commitment to ensuring that every passenger’s rights are respected.

The incident came to light when Adebola Daniel, son of former Ogun State Governor, Gbenga Daniel, shared his experience at the KFC outlet via a series of tweets posted on Wednesday through his handle, @DebolaDaniel.

The closure of the KFC outlet at MMIA serves as a reminder of the importance of upholding the rights and dignity of all individuals, especially those with special needs, within public facilities.