Kwara Governor’s Wife Condemns FGM as Human Rights Violation
Calls for Collaborative Efforts to End Harmful Practice
The wife of the Kwara Governor, Amb. Olufolake AbdulRazaq has called on stakeholders, including traditional rulers, corporate bodies, and individuals, to unite in the fight against Female Genital Mutilation (FGM).
Speaking at commemorating the 2025 International Day of Zero Tolerance for FGM in Ilorin, AbdulRazaq, represented by the House Committee on Health and Environment Chairman, Rasak Owolabi, emphasized the need for a collective effort to eradicate this harmful practice.
She stressed the importance of community support and urged all residents of the state to play their part in making Kwara FGM-free.
AbdulRazaq also called on all levels of government to strengthen policies and ensure justice for victims of this human rights violation.
“FGM is a serious human rights issue with devastating consequences,” she said. “It leaves lifelong physical, emotional, and psychological scars on countless girls and women.”
“We must all be voices of change in our communities and work together to end this harmful practice.”
Earlier, the Kwara Commissioner for Health, Dr. Amina El-Imam, highlighted the dangers of FGM and reiterated the state government’s commitment to its elimination.
She emphasized that the Kwara State Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Act provides a framework for addressing all forms of violence against women, including FGM.
The Emir of Shonga, Dr. Haliru Yahaya, expressed his support for the government’s efforts and assured the governor of the traditional rulers’ readiness to champion the campaign against FGM.
In a separate outreach program organized by the Governor’s wife, also held on Thursday, the dangers of FGM were highlighted.
Represented by the state Commissioner for Health, Dr. Amina El-Imam, the Governor’s wife sought stakeholders’ cooperation to end the practice, which she emphasized was still prevalent in Nigeria.
“FGM is a serious human rights issue that affects millions of girls and women worldwide, causing physical and emotional harm and death,” she stated.
“This outreach is a crucial step towards ending FGM and promoting a safer and healthier future for girls and women in Kwara.”
A resident, Iyaafin Olujide, expressed her support for the eradication campaign, stating that FGM is forbidden in her culture. NAN.
