In a heartbreaking turn of events, John and Janet Paul, a visually impaired couple residing in Abuja, have found themselves fighting an uphill battle for both their home and dignity. Despite facing numerous challenges due to their condition, the couple have always been steadfast in their love for each other. However, their world was recently turned upside down when their landlady, who moved into the property just a year ago, served them a quit notice, allegedly due to their blindness.
The Pauls, who are doing their best to live independent and fulfilling lives, shared their journey with SOLOMON ODENIYI, detailing their education, hardships, and the emotional toll of being stigmatized because of their visual impairments.
“I Never Thought I Could Go Far”
John Paul, who has been visually impaired since childhood, initially believed his disability would limit his future. But after being introduced to a school for the blind, he gained access to an education that changed his life. With the support of generous individuals, he’s currently pursuing a degree in Peace and Conflict Resolution at the National Open University. However, financial struggles persist, and he missed his semester exams last year due to an inability to pay fees.
Despite these setbacks, John is determined to continue his studies and make a better life for himself and his family. He also works as a gospel musician, performing at churches and events to support his family. But with the rising cost of living, even basic necessities are a challenge. “Just yesterday, I had to beg my classmates for help to buy food and medicine for my son,” John shared.
A Painful Discovery
Janet, who lost her sight at 18 due to an untreated eye infection, also endured a difficult journey. “I thought my life was over when I went blind,” she recalled. But her perspective changed after meeting a blind doctor who encouraged her not to give up. This encounter led her to attend a school for the blind, where she learned Braille and typing. Today, she is studying Political Science at the National Open University, working toward a brighter future.
Discrimination at Every Turn
The couple’s struggles go beyond financial hardship. Since moving into their current home in 2023, their landlady, who only took residence in the property a year later, has repeatedly pressured them to leave. “I don’t think she knew about our condition when we first moved in,” John explained. “But after she moved in, things changed. We’ve been living under constant pressure and discrimination.”
Despite not owing rent, the landlady served them with a quit notice, citing plans to renovate the house. However, finding a new home is nearly impossible for the couple due to their financial constraints. “We can’t just find another place. We need time to save and prepare for it,” Janet said, clearly exhausted by the ordeal.
The Struggles of Parenting and Discrimination
In addition to battling discrimination from their landlady, the couple also faces social stigmas from their community. From insensitive questions about their ability to parent to neighbors questioning the vision of their child, the Pauls often feel isolated. “People are shocked that our child isn’t blind,” John said. “It’s as if they think we’re not normal because of our condition.”
Despite these constant challenges, the Pauls remain resilient. “We need support,” Janet added. “If people can help us revive our business or assist us in finding a new home, it would relieve some of the pressure.”
The couple’s story sheds light on the hardships faced by people with disabilities in Nigeria, highlighting not only the physical and emotional toll of their condition but also the discrimination they face in society. As they continue to fight for their right to live in peace, the Pauls are a testament to love, perseverance, and hope—no matter the obstacles in their way.
