Living with Albinism in Nigeria: A Call for Compassionate Care

Peace Nwankaego Onuiri Ms, Babcock University, Ilishan-Remo, Ogun State
Ifeoma Helen Ayeni Mrs, Babcock Univeristy, Ilishan Remo Ogun State
Isaiah Ola Abolarin Dr., Babcock University, Ilishan-Remo, Ogun State
Nicola Nwosu Mrs, Babcock University, Ilishan-Remo, Ogun State
Bethel Chikanma Rueben Mr., Babcock University, Ilishan-Remo, Ogun State

Presentation Abstract

Albinism is a genetic condition in which the melanin pigment that protects the skin against the sun is absent from the skin of the individual. Albinos, meaning “white” are a group of individuals who lack or have a small amount of pigmentation in their eyes, skin, or hair, caused by lack of melanin. It is more de-stigmatizing to address them as “People with Albinism" (PWA) rather than derogatorily calling them Albinos. Albinism in Nigeria is estimated to affect over six million residents. Yet PWAs still struggle to find acceptance amongst the general populace because they live where difference is frowned upon rather than celebrated. There is also a cultural nuance that has shaped how Nigerians view PWAs. Nigerians, like other African countries, is plagued with myths and misconceptions about Albinism as a condition and also the people living with it. Consequently, this has generated prejudice, stigmatization, dehumanization and maltreatment towards these groups of individuals. Furthermore, prevailing superstitions have socio-culturally stereotyped PWAs as social outcasts. As such, they are regarded as a curse to their families, and most are rejected from infancy, if not killed immediately. Still they are bullied, abused sexually, physically and psychologically. Pressing questions include: Are PWAs not human beings? What continues to perpetuate the marginalization of these people? Why are they being ostracized? This study attempts to answer these questions, while calling for compassionate care for the PWAs.

This paper has been withdrawn.
 
May 23rd, 3:30 PM

Living with Albinism in Nigeria: A Call for Compassionate Care

Buller Hall, Room 250

Albinism is a genetic condition in which the melanin pigment that protects the skin against the sun is absent from the skin of the individual. Albinos, meaning “white” are a group of individuals who lack or have a small amount of pigmentation in their eyes, skin, or hair, caused by lack of melanin. It is more de-stigmatizing to address them as “People with Albinism" (PWA) rather than derogatorily calling them Albinos. Albinism in Nigeria is estimated to affect over six million residents. Yet PWAs still struggle to find acceptance amongst the general populace because they live where difference is frowned upon rather than celebrated. There is also a cultural nuance that has shaped how Nigerians view PWAs. Nigerians, like other African countries, is plagued with myths and misconceptions about Albinism as a condition and also the people living with it. Consequently, this has generated prejudice, stigmatization, dehumanization and maltreatment towards these groups of individuals. Furthermore, prevailing superstitions have socio-culturally stereotyped PWAs as social outcasts. As such, they are regarded as a curse to their families, and most are rejected from infancy, if not killed immediately. Still they are bullied, abused sexually, physically and psychologically. Pressing questions include: Are PWAs not human beings? What continues to perpetuate the marginalization of these people? Why are they being ostracized? This study attempts to answer these questions, while calling for compassionate care for the PWAs.