Upholding DEI Principles! KFC’s Unfortunate Show of Discrimination

In the hallowed halls of equality and inclusivity, actions often speak louder than words. Yet, a recent incident at Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC) in Nigeria has cast a shadow over the brand’s professed commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI). The ordeal of Debola Daniel, a disabled man, at a KFC outlet in the Murtala Muhammed Airport, serves as a stark reminder that DEI principles should not be confined to corporate statements but upheld in real-world interactions.

Debola Daniel’s harrowing experience, denied entry into the KFC restaurant due to a discriminatory “no wheelchair” policy, strikes at the heart of our collective humanity. His account of feeling “less than human” resonates with anyone who has faced exclusion or discrimination based on their physical abilities. It is a blatant violation of Nigeria’s Discrimination Against Persons With Disabilities (Prohibition) Act 2019, which seeks to protect the rights and dignity of individuals with disabilities.

While KFC has issued an apology, the underlying question remains: Why does such a discriminatory policy exist in the first place? As an international brand operating in Nigeria, KFC must adhere to the laws and values of the land, including those that uphold the rights of all individuals, regardless of their physical abilities.

The irony is not lost on us that Nigeria boasts over 31 million citizens with disabilities, yet accessibility and inclusivity remain elusive in many public spaces. The passage of the Discrimination Against Persons With Disabilities (Prohibition) Act 2019 was a significant step towards rectifying this injustice, yet its implementation requires a concerted effort from all sectors of society.

As we reflect on Debola Daniel’s experience, we are reminded of the imperative to ensure that DEI principles are not just lofty ideals but tangible realities in our daily lives. Every individual, regardless of their abilities, deserves to be treated with dignity, respect, and inclusion. It is time for brands like KFC to not only apologize but also take concrete actions to dismantle discriminatory policies and embrace a culture of inclusivity and accessibility.

In a nation where the marginalized often feel unheard and unseen, let us collectively strive to uphold the values of equality and justice for all. Let us ensure that “they” who disregard the rights of others are held accountable, and that the voices of the vulnerable are amplified and empowered. Only then can we truly say that “they” care about us all.

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