The National Commission for Persons with Disabilities has threatened court action against airlines in Nigeria that turn down persons with disabilities from flying.
The commission, in a statement by Ishaku Kigbu (anipr), Head Media and Publicity, expressed disappointment and deep concern over complaints that some persons with disabilities are denied boarding, viewing it as infringement on the rights of persons with disabilities.
NCPWD stated that it received reports that some airlines in Nigeria discriminate against persons with disabilities and generally challenged persons by refusing them access to certain aircraft.
The commission described such discrimination as a setback to the promotion of accessibility and inclusivity in the aviation industry.
The Commission urged carriers to imbibe international best practices or risk facing legal consequences.
“Carriers must serves all and does not discriminate as prescribed by the International Air Travellers Association (IATA) Regulations as well the Discrimination Against Persons with disabilities (Prohibition) Act 2018, Which expressly states under Section 14 (1) that, all airlines operating in Nigeria shall, a) ensure the accessibility of their aircrafts to persons with disabilities, d. ensure that people with disabilities are accorded priority while boarding and disembarking from the aircraft.
“The noncompliance with the above practice will definitely attract resultant sanctions as enshrined in the law,” the statement read.
The commission said it will view continued violations as infringements on the rights of persons with disabilities, adding that further complaints, inconveniences, and distresses would make a joke of the Prohibition Act passed in 2018.
As an organization advocating for the rights and empowerment of persons with disabilities, the Commission believes that accessibility should be a top priority in all aspects of life, including air and land transportation.
The commission believes that nothing must be allowed to call into question issues around accessibility and inclusivity that Nigeria preaches, especially with the passage of the Discrimination Against Persons with Disability (Prohibition) Act, 2018.
NCPWD urged relevant authorities to investigate incidents of discrimination and ensure that measures are put in place to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
The commission also called on stakeholders to join in promoting a more inclusive and accessible environment for all Nigerians.
The warning comes as Nigeria intensifies efforts to implement the provisions of the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act, which seeks to eliminate all forms of discrimination against persons with disabilities in the country.