FGM: EDSG marks International Day of Zero Tolerance with Sensitisation Programme in Owan-West

From our Bureau Chief, Benin

In 2012, the UN General Assembly designated February 6th as the International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation, with the aim to amplify and direct the efforts on the elimination of this practice.

For this year’s edition, Edo State Government through the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, marked the day with a one-day sensitization programme in Uzeba community, Owan-West Local Government Area of the State.

This year’s theme “Investment: Investing in Girls, Community and a Future Free From FGM”, brought together government officials, traditional rulers, community leaders and key stakeholders, to raise awareness on the dangers of FGM and strengthen collective action towards the elimination of the harmful practice.

The director of media in the Ministry, Daisy Osunde made this known in a press release circulated amongst journalists in Benin, Weekend.

In her welcome address, 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 has the right to grow up healthy, safe and free from harmful traditional practices, Daisy stated.

“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” Mrs. Abdallah was quoted to have said.

She described the sensitization programme as a vital platform for fostering dialogue, sharing knowledge, and promoting collaboration among stakeholders.

While noting that it allows communities to voice concerns, learn about the dangers of FGM, and collectively build a strong, united movement committed to ending the practice and protecting the rights and well-being of girls and women.

The Commissioner further reaffirmed the State Government’s unwavering commitment to protecting women and girls, stressing that the present administration remains dedicated to promoting their safety, well-being, and dignity.

She further called on traditional and religious leaders, parents and caregivers to join hands in ensuring the total elimination of FGM across the State.

“To our traditional and religious leaders present here today, your voices carry authority and trust. When you speak against FGM, communities listen!

“We count on your continued leadership in protecting the girl child. To parents and caregivers, your daughters do not need cutting to be accepted, to be pure, or to be worthy, they are already whole“, she stated.

In her speech, the Chairman of Owan-West Local Government, Hon. Joy Ohonyon, also 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 collective action, including sustained awareness, support for survivors, and advocacy for protective policies, to create a society where every girl can grow up free from fear, violence, and discrimination.

The Ministry Gender-Based Violence (GBV) Desk Officer, Mrs. Eseosa Onebamoi, gave an in-depth explanation of the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Law.

Onebamoi stressed that FGM is clearly criminalized under the law and attracts serious penalties for offenders.

Emphasising ignorance of the law is not an excuse, she called on families and traditional institutions to align cultural practices with human rights standards; in order to safeguard the future of the girl child.

Also delivering a lecture, the Manager of the Vivian Sexual Assault Referral Center, Dr. Faith Edebor, highlighted the severe health risks associated with FGM.

Describing it as a dangerous practice with no medical benefits, she explained that FGM can lead to excessive bleeding, severe pain, infections, complications during childbirth, psychological trauma and even death.

Dr. Edebor urged families to prioritize the health and safety of their daughters, stressing that protecting girls from FGM is a critical step towards building healthier families and communities.

In the same vein, the Lead Coach of the Coaching and Mentoring Academy, Dr. Abu Bello spoke on protecting women and the girl child through community action.

He emphasized that ending FGM requires collective responsibility and sustained grassroots engagement.

Dr. Bello noted that communities play a crucial role in changing harmful norms and beliefs by speaking out, supporting survivors, and promoting positive cultural values that uphold dignity and respect.

The event also featured interactive sessions, including questions and answers which provided community members, the opportunity to seek clarification, share concerns and deepen their understanding of the health, legal and social consequences of Female Genital Mutilation, Daisy disclosed.

Stakeholders, including the Owan-West Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Rev. Clement Ohimai, and traditional ruler Chief Ileabo Izedonmi, appreciated the visit and pledged their commitment to ensuring the message against FGM is widely spread within their communities.