By DADA AYOKHAI
The Edo State Government has described Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) as a violation of human rights and a threat to the health and dignity of women and girls
Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Mrs. Eugenia Abdallah, made the statement during a one-day sensitization programme in Uzeba community, Owan West Local Government Area, marking the 2026 International Day of Zero Tolerance for FGM.
The event, themed “Investment: Investing in Girls, Community and a Future Free From FGM”, aimed to raise awareness on the dangers of FGM and promote collective action towards its elimination .
The government reaffirmed its commitment to protecting women and girls, and called on traditional leaders, parents, and caregivers to join the fight against FGM.
The Commissioner represented by the Permanent Secretary, Mrs. Joy Ihensekhien, described the day as a global call to conscience and a reminder that every girl has the right to grow up healthy, safe and free from harmful traditional practices.
”Female Genital Multilation is not a culture, it is a violation of human rights, a threat to health, and a barrier to the dignity and full potential of women and girls”, she stated.
Also speaking, the Chairman of Owan West Local Government, Hon. Joy Ohonyon, emphasized the need for collective action to create a society where every girl can grow up free from fear, violence, and discrimination, describing mutilation as a harmful practice that violates the rights of girls and women
The Ministry’s Gender-Based Violence (GBV) Desk Officer, Mrs. Eseosa Onebamoi, stated that Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) is a crime under the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Law .
She warned that offenders will face serious penalties, emphasizing that ignorance of the law is not an excuse. Mrs. Onebamoi called on families and traditional institutions to align cultural practices with human rights standards to protect girls.
Similarly, the Manager of the Vivian Sexual Assault Referral Center, Dr. Faith Edebor, described Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) as a “dangerous practice with no medical benefits”
She highlighted the severe health risks associated with FGM, including excessive bleeding, severe pain, infections, complications during childbirth, psychological trauma, and even death .
Dr. Edebor urged communities to prioritize the health and safety of girls and women. The Lead Coach of the Coaching and Mentoring Academy, Dr. Abu Bello, emphasized that ending FGM requires collective responsibility and sustained grassroots engagement .
Stakeholders, including Christian and traditional leaders, pledged to support efforts to eradicate FGM in their communities .
