ASHENEWS reports that Aisha Aminu, a visually impaired nurse, has faced discrimination at the Federal Medical Center (FMC) Bida after her job appointment was revoked due to her visual impairment.
An Advocacy Group, the Quality Life for Persons with Special Needs Foundation is calling for immediate action to address this injustice.
The Foundation, in a press statement signed by the Coordinator, Abdulrahman Awal, lamented that despite passing the required exams and receiving initial support from the Director of Nursing Service, Aisha’s appointment was retracted without her consent, based solely on her visual impairment.
“Despite successfully passing the Computer-Based Test (CBT) exam and receiving initial support from the Director of Nursing Service, Aisha’s appointment letter was taken without her consent, questioning her ability to work based on her visual impairment.
“Aisha’s dedication to her profession led her to volunteer at a primary health care center in Bida, where she provided health education and psychological support to patients”, the statement read.
The Foundation argues that this action violates several provisions of the Nigerian Constitution and the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act of 2018.
Constitutional violations
The Advocacy group highlighted that the sections of the constitution violated include the Right to Dignity (Section 34) where Aisha’s dignity was compromised by questioning her ability to work.
Another section include the Right to Freedom from Discrimination (Section 42) where the victim faced discrimination based solely on her visual impairment. The Right to Work (Section 17(3)(a)) where she was denied employment without due process.
The action also violated the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act of 2018 due to the failure of the health institution to provide reasonable accommodations and equal opportunities.
Global context
The Foundation highlights the significant contributions of visually impaired nurses globally, who use adaptive technologies to excel in their roles.
They argue that the FMC Bida’s stance on Aisha’s case reflects a regressive approach compared to international inclusive employment practices.
Demands for justice
The Foundation demands the following actions, immediate reinstatement of Aisha to her nursing position, and compensation for the emotional distress she suffered. They also demanded for the implementation of inclusive policies across all federal institutions to ensure equal opportunities for persons with disabilities.
“The Quality Life for Persons with Special Needs Foundation is committed to advocating for the rights and welfare of individuals with disabilities. We stand in solidarity with Aisha Aminu, a dedicated and passionate nurse whose story exemplifies resilience and determination.
“Despite facing significant challenges, Aisha has overcome numerous obstacles to achieve her goal of becoming a nurse. However, her recent experience at the Federal Medical Center (FMC) Bida highlights the systemic discrimination faced by persons with special needs, prompting us to seek justice on her behalf”, the Foundation stated.
The Foundation urges society, stakeholders, and human rights organizations to support the victim, Aisha in setting a precedent for protecting the rights of all persons with disabilities.
