By Damilola Fayose.
In the bustling district of Agege, Lagos, where life teems with the indomitable spirit of resilience, there is a story that exemplifies hope, struggle, and the power of community. I had the privilege of sitting down with Mr. Gabriel Hassan, a 45-year-old father and lifelong resident of Agege, whose life has been marked by both physical and socioeconomic challenges. Born with a disability that limits his mobility, Mr. Hassan’s path has been one of enduring hardship and courage. The impact of the 2020 EndSARS protests, during which his modest grocery shop was engulfed in flames, has only deepened his struggles.
Here is the narrative of a man who, despite the odds, continues to fight for his family’s survival.
Damilola Fayose (DF): Mr. Hassan, thank you for taking the time to share your story. Can you tell us a bit about your background and how life has been since the loss of your business in 2020?
Gabriel Hassan (GH): Thank you, Damilola. I was born here in Agege and have lived my whole life in this community. I was born crippled, and while that has posed many challenges, it has never stopped me from working hard to make an honest living. For years, I ran a small grocery shop that supported my family. But in October 2020, during the EndSARS protests, everything changed. My shop was set ablaze amidst the chaos, and with it, my main source of livelihood disappeared.
DF: That must have been devastating. How did losing your business affect your daily life and your family?
GH: It was an overwhelming blow. The income from that shop paid for everything: food, rent, and most importantly, my daughter Aminat’s school fees. Since then, we’ve been barely managing. Aminat, who is 12 now, has had to miss this academic session because I simply don’t have the means to pay her fees. It breaks my heart that she’s falling behind in her education. The economic situation is harsh, and with prices rising, even basic needs are becoming luxuries.
DF: In the face of these struggles, what has kept you going?
GH: Hope, Damilola. Hope and the love of my daughter. Aminat is my source of strength. Seeing her try to be optimistic despite our situation pushes me to keep fighting. My community also helps in small ways, but everyone is struggling these days. We’re all in the same storm, but in different boats.
DF: How have you been coping with the current economic challenges? Have you received any assistance from local authorities or organisations?
GH: Honestly, coping has been difficult. I try to do small things like selling recharge cards or helping neighbours with errands for a little money, but it’s not sustainable. So far, I haven’t received any help from the government or any organizations, though I have reached out to the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD) and a few local NGOs. I am still hopeful that help will come one day.
DF: If there were one thing you could say to the government, the NCPWD, or potential benefactors, what would it be?
GH: I would say that many of us who live with disabilities face unique challenges. When disasters strike, like the EndSARS protests did, we are left with fewer resources to rebuild. I appeal to the government, NCPWD, NGOs, and well-meaning individuals to support us in getting back on our feet. A little assistance could help rebuild my shop or fund my daughter’s education, giving us a fighting chance for a better future.
DF: How can people reach you if they want to help?
GH: Anyone who wishes to reach out or offer support can contact me at my phone number, 08103289180. I’m open to any assistance, no matter how small. It would mean the world to us.
DF: Mr. Hassan, thank you so much for sharing your story. I hope your voice reaches those who can make a difference.
GH: Thank you, Damilola. Just being heard is a small victory. I appreciate you taking the time to listen and share our story.
In the dim light of Mr. Hassan’s modest home, it is evident that hope still glimmers. His story is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the profound impact that acts of kindness can have. For Mr. Hassan and Aminat, the path forward may be uncertain, but their determination remains steady. Anyone who reads this is encouraged to reach out and support him, bringing much-needed relief and hope to this brave father and his bright daughter.
