The International Human Rights Commission (IHRC) in Nigeria has demanded that Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) practices be outlawed and steps should be taken to end the damaging practice in Nigeria.
The Head of Diplomatic Mission of the organization, Chinenye Duru, said this on Tuesday, Feb. 6, in commemorating the International Day of Zero Tolerance for FGM.
Mr Duru said that FGM is still widely practiced in Nigeria, where the World Health Organization (WHO) reports that the nation accounts for a large percentage of cases globally.
“The effects of female genital mutilation are extensive and grave. In terms of health, it can result in excruciating pain, infections, difficult labour, and even fatality. It produces long-lasting psychological and emotional scars, leading to trauma, despair, and a feeling of being violated. In addition, FGM limits the potential of girls and women and reinforces negative perceptions that contribute to gender inequity.
“The International Human Rights Commission (IHRC) in Nigeria calls for the need to eradicate FGM in Nigeria and educate the general public at all levels with emphasis on the dangers,” he said.
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Additionally, Mr. Duru clarified that in order to effectively combat FGM, a multifaceted approach is necessary, including promoting awareness through advocacy campaigns and education. He also stated that laws need to be upheld and strengthened. Legislation should be passed by governments that specifically makes FGM illegal and provides protection for female children.
Female genital mutilation is a procedure that involves the removal of all or part of a woman’s female genitalia. It violates human rights and has serious negative effects on a person’s physical, mental, and emotional well-being as well as increasing risk to the health of women and girls.
According to WHO estimates, Nigeria accounts for 25% of the estimated 115–130 million circumcised women globally.