Centre for Disability and Inclusion Africa launches ‘#WheelchairNotLuggage’ campaign to end discrimination against mobility-challenged persons

The Centre for Disability and Inclusion Africa (CDIA) has launched the ‘#WheelchairNotLuggage’ campaign, a drive aimed at addressing human rights abuses faced by mobility-challenged individuals in Nigeria.

The initiative seeks to end the mistreatment of wheelchair users by public transport operators and airline carriers, who often refuse to transport them, subject them to inhumane treatment, or impose additional charges for carrying their wheelchairs.

At the campaign’s launch in Lagos, the Executive Director of CDIA, Yinka Olaito, described the situation as a long-standing injustice that demands urgent action. “Many persons with mobility challenges, who depend on wheelchairs, have silently endured discrimination and abuse for years. This includes public transport operators refusing to board them, treating their wheelchairs as luggage, or charging extra fees,” Olaito stated.

Highlighting the provisions of the Nigeria’s Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities Law of 2018, Olaito stressed that such practices are not only illegal but also constitute criminal offences. “A wheelchair is a personal mobility item, not luggage. Denying transportation to wheelchair users or charging them extra is a violation of their rights,” he added.

Olaito called on leaders of transport associations across the country to address the conduct of their members, urging them to comply with the law.

He also encouraged stakeholders in the disability inclusion ecosystem to amplify their voices against these injustices, noting that equity cannot be achieved while a section of the population continues to face systemic discrimination.

The campaign marks the beginning of a broader movement to ensure full compliance with laws protecting the rights of persons with disabilities.

CDIA plans to roll out additional activities in the coming months to drive awareness and accountability.