...advocate stringent penalty for offenders
Survivors of Female Genital Mutilation FGM, have condemned the practice as harmful and unnecessary, stressing that it doesn’t prevent sexual immorality.
This statement was made during a two-day media dialogue in Benin, Edo State, aimed at supporting advocacy to end FGM in Nigeria.
One them, Blessing Ogo shared her painful experience, revealing that the practice has left her struggling to enjoy sexual intimacy with her partner.
She described FGM as barbaric and unnecessary, urging those involved in the practice to stop, saying the trauma still lingers, making her feel less feminine.
The survivors noted that the cutting always comes with Physical Complications, Severe pain, excessive bleeding, infections, urinary issues, menstrual problems, emotional trauma, psychological effects, including anxiety, depression, Sexual Health Issues, sexual dysfunction
They appealed to the government and stakeholders to collaborate with UNICEF and other organizations to eradicate FGM as well advocated for stringent penalties for those involving in the practice.
A former FGM practitioner, Mrs. Bridget Omobude who
shared her transformation story explained that She learned the practice from her parents but stopped after her daughter enlightened her about its harm.
Mrs Omobude noted that the practice rooted in cultural benefits but rather causes harm for the survivors.
On his own, a male advocate, Pastor Ken Izah
noted that FGM isn’t biblical, pointing out that there’s no mention of female circumcision in the Bible, urging parents and practitioners to abandon the practice.
