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Journalists and media professionals have been urged to eliminate bias and adopt rights-based approaches in reporting disability issues, as experts warned against stereotypes that reinforce discrimination.
The call was made during a training on disability rights, inclusion, and ethical reporting held at Candellux Imperial Hotel, Garki, Abuja.
The capacity-building session focused on equipping journalists with the knowledge and skills to report accurately, ethically, and sensitively on disability issues, in line with the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act, 2018.
In her welcome address, the Executive Director of the organising foundation, Mrs Peters Ogunmoujer, stressed the critical role of the media in shaping public perception and advancing inclusion.
She urged journalists to adopt responsible storytelling that respects the dignity and rights of persons with disabilities, while also raising awareness of existing legal protections.
A facilitator, Musa Muazu, who led a key session, provided an overview of disability rights and inclusion, noting that discrimination against persons with disabilities is a punishable offence under Nigerian law.
He explained that individuals found guilty of discrimination risk a fine of up to ₦100,000 or six months imprisonment, while organisations may face fines of up to ₦1,000,000.
Muazu added that the Act guarantees accessibility, mandating that public buildings, roads, transport systems, and infrastructure must be designed to accommodate persons with disabilities through features such as ramps, lifts, and accessible pathways.
Participants were also informed of the right of persons with disabilities to seek legal redress even after offenders have been prosecuted, strengthening accountability mechanisms.
Speaking on media practices, another facilitator, Christopher Okafor, cautioned against stereotypical and pity-driven narratives, noting that such portrayals undermine the dignity of persons with disabilities.
He criticised reports that present achievements or life events of persons with disabilities as unusual, warning that such narratives subtly reinforce exclusion.
Okafor emphasised the need for a shift towards rights-based reporting that focuses on access, equality, and systemic barriers rather than sympathy-driven stories.
The training also highlighted the importance of using inclusive language, avoiding harmful captions, and drawing attention to critical issues such as access to transportation, infrastructure, and social services.
Participants were encouraged to use their platforms to influence policy, promote awareness, and contribute to building a more inclusive society.