From Ighomuaye Lucky, Benin
The Initiative for Advancement of the Albinism Cause (INAAC), an NGO, has faulted social media content promoting the stigmatisation of Persons with Albinism (PWAs) in society.
Miss Joy Odigie, Founder of INAAC, made the condemnation in a statement made available to reporters in Benin on the occasion of the 2023 Zero Discrimination Day marked every year on March 1.
She said it was worrisome that discrimination had continued to heighten against PWAs, especially due to negative content being put on the social media space.
“Albinism is a genetic condition that decreases the production of melanin, resulting in a fair skin complexion, light eyes and hair, and increased susceptibility to skin and eye conditions.
“‘PWAs in Nigeria have always had to contend with different forms of social discrimination and stigmatisation from a section of the population.
“Discrimination of this group of persons had led to murder, amputations, abuse and trafficking in body parts of PWAs in some parts of Nigeria.
“This is an affront to the dignity and sanctity of the human body as guaranteed under international human rights law.”
She regretted that some of the misinformation about albinism were being propagated by some PWAs who cared more about financial gains than respect for their fellow PWAs.
“Discrimination takes various forms. The term ‘albino’ is often used in a derogatory way to dehumanise people with albinism.
“Skits are meant to educate persons and not to dehumanise people. ‘Portraying persons with albinism as blind persons or calling them names like afternoon, fake oyibo is highly condemnable.
“The depiction and portrayal of PWAs in film and fiction have been asserted by different albinism organisations and others to be largely negative.
“This is a call for concern as it reinforces, or even engenders, societal prejudice and discrimination against such people
“Most persons believe what they see and hear on social media, whether they are true or not,” Odigie said.
She called on the media to help in changing the narrative via promoting the right information about albinism as well as demystify myths.
She also advocated for stringent human rights laws that would protect the rights of PWAs in society.
The theme for the 2023 Zero Discrimination Day is “Save Lives: Decriminalise”.