WheelChairNotLuggage’: Group Fights Discrimination Against Disabled Nigerians

In response to the growing challenges of stigmatisation, rights violations, and lack of freedom faced by persons with disabilities in Nigeria, the Centre for Disability and Inclusion Africa has launched a nationwide awareness campaign titled WheelChairNotLuggage

In a statement signed by the organisation’s executive director, Mr. Yinka Olaito, on Wednesday, January 8, the campaign aims to address the discrimination and inhumane treatment experienced by mobility-challenged persons, particularly in public transportation.

According to Mr. Olaito, WheelChairNotLuggage is a passionate call for a behavioural shift among transport operators, including public bus and car drivers, who have long violated the rights of wheelchair users.

These violations include the habitual denials to convey individuals with disabilities and the charging of additional fees for wheelchairs, which unfortunately lead to degrading treatment. He said

“This campaign is overdue. For years, persons with mobility challenges have silently endured abuse from public transporters, including buses, cars, and airline operators. Many of these operators either lack awareness or act with deliberate disregard,” said Mr. Olaito.

He emphasised that the “Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act of 2018” explicitly prohibits such acts of discrimination and abuse. “A wheelchair is a personal mobility aid, not luggage. Refusing to board a person with a wheelchair or treating their wheelchair as cargo is not only inhumane but also illegal under Nigerian law. Offenders can face criminal charges if found guilty,” he stated.

Mr. Olaito called on the leadership of transport associations nationwide to orient their members and enforce compliance with the law. He also urged stakeholders in the disability inclusion ecosystem to join the campaign and advocate for equity and justice.

“The launch of this campaign is only the beginning. More activities will follow in the coming months until we see full compliance and respect for the rights of persons with disabilities”.

The WheelChairNotLuggage campaign, according to Mr. Olaito, is a significant step toward ensuring that people with disabilities in Nigeria receive dignity, fairness, and respect in all aspects of daily life.