Bida, Niger State – In a country where the fight for equal rights and opportunities continues to be a significant struggle, the story of Aisha Aminu stands out as a poignant reminder of the challenges faced by persons with disabilities. A dedicated and passionate nurse, Aisha’s journey from a determined student to a qualified nurse embodies resilience and determination. However, her recent ordeal at the Federal Medical Center (FMC) Bida has brought to light the systemic discrimination that individuals with special needs still encounter, prompting an outcry for justice and equality.
A Journey of Determination and Resilience
Born on November 28, 2000, in Bida, Niger State, Aisha Aminu has always been a figure of perseverance. Diagnosed with short-sightedness during her primary school years and later with Retinitis Pigmentosa (RP) in 2017—a genetic condition leading to irreversible vision loss—Aisha faced significant challenges. Despite these obstacles, her ambition to become a nurse never wavered.
Aisha’s commitment to her education and future career led her to the Niger State College of Nursing Science, School of Nursing Bida, where she graduated in 2022. She adopted various visual aids and technologies to assist her learning, proving that her visual impairment was not a barrier to achieving her goals. After passing the National Council Examination, she was licensed to practice as a nurse—a monumental achievement underscoring her dedication.
Beyond academic success, Aisha volunteered at a primary health care center in Bida, where she provided vital health education and psychological support to patients. Her work not only showcased her professional skills but also her empathy and dedication to patient care.
Facing Injustice at the Federal Medical Center
Aisha’s journey took a distressing turn in early 2024 when she applied for a position at FMC Bida. Despite successfully passing the Computer-Based Test (CBT) and initially receiving support from the Director of Nursing Service, Aisha’s appointment was abruptly questioned. Her employment offer was withdrawn, and her appointment letter was taken without her consent. The reason given for this injustice was her visual impairment, a decision that blatantly disregarded her qualifications and experience.
This discriminatory act violated Aisha’s fundamental rights as guaranteed by the Nigerian Constitution and the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act of 2018. It highlighted the systemic biases that continue to undermine the capabilities and rights of persons with disabilities in Nigeria.
Constitutional and Legal Violations
The actions against Aisha Aminu violate several constitutional rights and legal protections:
- Right to Dignity (Section 34 of the Nigerian Constitution): Aisha’s dignity was compromised by questioning her abilities based solely on her visual impairment, rather than her demonstrated skills and qualifications.
- Right to Freedom from Discrimination (Section 42 of the Nigerian Constitution): Aisha was discriminated against on the grounds of her disability, despite her proven competence as a nurse.
- Right to Work (Section 17(3)(a) of the Nigerian Constitution): Every Nigerian citizen is entitled to gainful employment. The withdrawal of Aisha’s appointment, without due process, infringes upon this right.
- Prohibition of Discrimination on the Basis of Disability (Section 1 of the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act, 2018): Aisha’s exclusion from employment based on her disability is a direct contravention of this law.
- Accessibility and Equal Opportunities (Section 2 of the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act, 2018): The failure to provide reasonable accommodations and appropriate work placements for Aisha violates her right to accessible and equal opportunities in the workplace.
Global Contributions of Visually Impaired Nurses
Around the world, visually impaired nurses have made significant contributions to healthcare, demonstrating that visual impairment does not hinder one’s ability to provide quality care. In many countries, healthcare systems have successfully integrated visually impaired professionals, leveraging adaptive technologies and innovative strategies to enhance patient care. These nurses bring unique perspectives and heightened empathy, often improving patient outcomes and overall service quality.
The reluctance of some Nigerian institutions to embrace such inclusivity reflects a regressive stance compared to global advancements. It underscores the urgent need for the country to adopt more inclusive practices and policies, ensuring that persons with disabilities are not only given equal opportunities but are also celebrated for their unique contributions.
Call for Justice and Inclusive Policies
Organization like The Quality Life for Persons with Special Needs Foundation, among other advocacy groups, is calling for immediate legal and institutional remedies:
- Restoration of Employment: The immediate reinstatement of Aisha Aminu to her rightful position at FMC Bida, acknowledging her qualifications and dedication.
- Compensation for Emotional Distress: Financial compensation for the emotional distress and humiliation Aisha suffered due to the unlawful actions taken against her.
- Implementation of Inclusive Policies: The development and strict enforcement of policies that promote inclusivity and non-discrimination in all federal institutions, ensuring equal employment opportunities for persons with disabilities.
A Call to Action
The case of Aisha Aminu is not just a fight for one individual’s rights but a broader call to action for the Nigerian society, stakeholders, and human rights organizations. It is a rallying cry to uphold the dignity and rights of all persons with disabilities, ensuring they are not marginalized or discriminated against.
By supporting Aisha’s cause, we not only seek justice for her but also set a crucial precedent for protecting the rights of all individuals with disabilities. It is a collective responsibility to ensure that no one is denied their right to work, live, and contribute to society with dignity.
For more information or to offer support, please contact The Quality Life for Persons with Special Needs Foundation via text message at 070379422222.
This story is a testament to the resilience of individuals like Aisha Aminu and a call to action for all of us to strive for a more inclusive and just society.
