The Federal Government has warned that it may shut down financial institutions in Nigeria that fail to comply with accessibility laws for persons with disabilities (PwDs). This announcement comes from Mr. Ayuba Gufwan, Executive Secretary of the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD), in response to a recent incident involving Mr. Chris Agbo, a wheelchair user, who faced discrimination at a bank in Area 3.
On September 18, Agbo was unable to access the bank’s facilities due to a lack of ramps and was informed that the ATM was not operational when he sent an aide for assistance. Gufwan highlighted that this incident exemplifies the ongoing challenges PwDs face despite existing laws designed to protect their rights.
He stated that the NCPWD will investigate this case and any similar incidents, emphasizing that the commission will prosecute organizations that violate the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act of 2018. This act requires institutions to ensure their facilities are accessible to PwDs.
Gufwan expressed frustration over the repeated discrimination faced by the disability community, noting that many banks lack the necessary infrastructure, such as ramps, to facilitate access. He also pointed out the risks involved when PwDs rely on third parties for assistance with ATM transactions, as this often requires sharing sensitive information like passwords.
The NCPWD has pledged to take a firm stance against such discrimination, aiming to improve accessibility across both public and private sectors.