Visually Impaired Nurse Alleges Unfair Treatment at Enugu Neuropsychiatric School

A visually impaired nurse, Uche Olivia, has raised allegations of discrimination against the Federal Neuropsychiatric School of Post‑Basic Mental Health Nursing in Enugu after being denied essential support during her entrance examination.

Olivia, who lives with optic nerve atrophy, applied to the institution to advance her career in mental health nursing. Prior to the exam, she formally requested accommodations including large-print exam papers, a reader, and additional time to complete the test.

According to Olivia, her requests were ignored on exam day. She claims that school officials failed to provide any of the requested assistance, and when she attempted to draw attention to her situation, she was allegedly dismissed and left without support, despite presenting medical documentation of her condition.

The case has drawn criticism from disability rights advocates, who emphasize that the denial of reasonable accommodations contravenes the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act, 2018. Advocates are urging institutions to uphold the rights of persons with disabilities and ensure fair treatment in educational and professional settings.

The National Commission for Persons with Disabilities has reportedly intervened, summoning the school’s chief medical director for an investigation into the alleged discriminatory practices. Olivia’s experience has renewed calls for greater awareness, inclusion, and legal compliance in Nigeria’s educational institutions.