Ekiti officials urge end to female genital mutilation
The Ekiti State Government is intensifying efforts to eliminate Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) and other gender-based violence. Oyebanji Filani, the Commissioner for Health and Human Services, described FGM as a dangerous practice with no health benefits and called for stronger advocacy against it. Representatives from the United Nations Population Fund and other stakeholders highlighted the severe health and psychological risks associated with FGM. The government has warned that perpetrators will face prosecution.
Highlights
- Oyebanji Filani emphasized that FGM causes immediate and long-term health complications, including severe pain, infections, and psychological trauma.
- The United Nations Population Fund, represented by Agnes Oyeniran, partnered with the Ekiti State Ministry of Health to train health educators on anti-FGM advocacy.
- Dupe Amodu noted that FGM is classified by the World Health Organisation as a violation of human rights and a major public health concern.
- The government pledged to prosecute anyone found guilty of performing FGM in the state.
- Participants at the training expressed commitment to spreading anti-FGM messages in their communities.
