De-Patriot
The Edo State Government has intensified its campaign against Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), marking the 2026 International Day of Zero Tolerance for FGM with a one-day sensitization programme in Uzeba community, Owan West Local Government Area.
The event, organised by the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, brought together government officials, traditional rulers, religious leaders, community stakeholders and residents under the global theme, “Investment: Investing in Girls, Community and a Future Free from FGM.” The programme focused on raising awareness about the dangers of FGM while mobilising collective action to end the harmful practice.
Declaring the programme open, the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Mrs. Eugenia Abdallah represented by the Permanent Secretary, Mrs. Joy Ihensekhien described the day as a global call to conscience and a reminder that every girl deserves to grow up healthy, safe and free from harmful traditional practices.
“Female Genital Mutilation is not 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 said.
Mrs. Abdallah explained that the sensitization programme was designed as a platform for dialogue, knowledge sharing and collaboration among stakeholders, noting that community engagement remains critical to ending FGM.
According to her, such forums allow communities to openly discuss concerns, understand the health and legal implications of FGM, and build a united front to protect the rights and well-being of girls and women across the state.
She reaffirmed the unwavering commitment of the Edo State Government to safeguarding women and girls, stressing that the present administration remains resolute in promoting their safety, dignity and overall well-being. She called on traditional and religious leaders, parents and caregivers to take ownership of the fight against FGM.
“Your voices carry authority and trust. When you speak against FGM, communities listen. We count on your leadership in protecting the girl child. To parents and caregivers, your daughters do not need cutting to be accepted or worthy they are already whole,” she added.
In her remarks, the Chairman of Owan West Local Government Area, Hon. Joy Ohonyon, condemned FGM as a harmful practice that violates the rights of girls and women and causes lasting physical and emotional harm. She emphasized the need for sustained awareness, survivor support and strong advocacy to create communities where girls can live free from fear, violence and discrimination.
The Ministry’s Gender Based Violence (GBV) Desk Officer, Mrs. Eseosa Onebamoi, provided a detailed explanation of the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Law, stressing that FGM is a criminal offence under the law and attracts severe penalties. She warned that ignorance of the law is not an excuse and urged families and traditional institutions to align cultural practices with human rights standards.
Also speaking, the Manager of the Vivian Sexual Assault Referral Centre, Dr. Faith Edebor, highlighted the serious health risks associated with FGM, describing it as a dangerous practice with no medical benefits. She explained that FGM can result in severe health complications, psychological trauma and, in extreme cases, death. She urged families to prioritise the health and safety of their daughters.
On his part, the Lead Coach of the Coaching and Mentoring Academy, Dr. Abu Bello, emphasized the role of communities in ending FGM, noting that sustainable change requires collective responsibility and grassroots action. He encouraged community members to challenge harmful norms, support survivors and promote positive cultural values that uphold dignity and respect.
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