The residents of Ira community in Kwara state have been urged to support government initiatives in the fight against female genital mutilation.
The Director of Social Welfare, Kwara state Ministry of Social Development, Mr James Kayode made the call while speaking at a sensitisation programme on FGM held in Ira, Oyun local government area of Kwara state.
According to him the negative physical health complications psychological and emotional trauma of the practice calls for it’s total abolishment the world over.
Mr Kayode advised the people of the state to support the fight against female genital mutilation inorder to save the girl child.
In her remarks, the founder of Global Hope for Women and Children Foundation, Dr. Christy Abayomi- Oluwole said some of the risk associated with the practice included high risk of infections, and pains during menstrual periods, among others.
Dr. Abayomi debunked the negative rumour that women are prone to promiscuity if not circumcised.
In his address former Director, National Orientation Agency (NOA) Kwara State Directorate, Mr Segun Adeyemi, advised the participants at the programme to accept the responsibility of being active change agents in ending the harmful practices of female genital mutilation.
He urged religious leaders to educate the general public on the danger of female genital mutilation.
In his address on the occasion, the Onira of Iraland, Oba Abdulwahab Oyetoro, commended the State government and other stakeholders for their commitment to welfare of women and children.
He pledged the continued support of traditional institution in the fight against female genital mutilation in iraland Oyun local government area of the state.
