A non-governmental organisation has urged journalists and media practitioners to adopt respectful and inclusive language when reporting issues concerning persons with disabilities, warning that harmful expressions and stereotypes contribute to discrimination and social exclusion.
The call was made during a one-day media engagement and training session on disability inclusion held in Osogbo, where participants were encouraged to improve ethical standards in disability-related reporting.
The Executive Director of the organisation, Community Advancement Initiative for Self Reliance (CAI4SR), Eni Ayeni, said media professionals must avoid portraying persons with disabilities in ways that suggest helplessness, inferiority or dependence.
She stressed that individuals with disabilities should be seen first as human beings, adding that their conditions should not define their identity or limit how society perceives them.
Ayeni called for the use of person-first language in journalism, explaining that such an approach promotes dignity, inclusion and respect for human rights.
She advised reporters to say “person with a disability” instead of “disabled person,” noting that this places emphasis on the individual rather than the condition.
She also cautioned against expressions that evoke pity or negativity, such as “suffers from,” “afflicted by,” or “wheelchair-bound,” recommending more neutral and respectful alternatives.
According to her, terms like “person with visual impairment” or “person who is blind” should replace labels such as “the blind” or “sightless,” while emphasising the importance of recognising individual identity rather than grouping people under broad generalisations.
Ayeni explained that the training was designed to strengthen ethical reporting and improve understanding of disability rights issues among media practitioners.
She added that better language use would contribute significantly to promoting dignity, equality and social inclusion for persons with disabilities.
Also speaking at the event, legal practitioner Oluwafemi Balogun highlighted the provisions of the Osun State Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Law, 2024.
He explained that the law prohibits discrimination against persons with disabilities and provides legal protection against unfair treatment based on their condition.
Balogun noted that offenders face penalties, including fines and possible imprisonment, depending on whether the violation is committed by individuals or corporate bodies.
He urged individuals, organisations and institutions to support efforts aimed at eliminating discrimination and ensuring equal rights for persons with disabilities.
The engagement ended with a renewed call for greater awareness and responsible communication practices that uphold the dignity and inclusion of persons with disabilities in society.