The United Nations and its agency, World Health Organization dedicates February 6th as International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation.
Female genital mutilation (FGM) involves the partial or total removal of external female genitalia or other injury to the female genital organs for non-medical reasons.
In commemoration of the day, a march against the practise was held within Akure metropolis by Journalists, the state chapter of the federation of women lawyers, FIda, rights activists among others.
The organiser of the walk, a Broadcaster, Moninkanola Ogidan who is a staff of Adaba FM, Akure and female genital mutilation activist led other activists and volunteers on a walk to create awareness and sensitize residents of Akure the Ondo State capital on the dangers of the practice.
She said no girl child deserves to go through such horrific experience as its effect has a life long damage on womanhood.
The chairperson of the state’s federation women of lawyers (FIDA), Jumoke Ogunjeebi described the practise as the violation of the human rights of girls and women and also noted that perpetrators are liable to a term of imprisonment not exceeding four years.
Also among the train of campaigner was the regent of Ibule-soro Princess Moyinoluwa Olubunmi falowo who appealed to people to abandon the practise as it is no longer relevant in cultural practices. She advised parents and guardians to preach against female genital mutilation for the good of the female child.
Some of the participants say the day is an avenue to raise awareness and enlighten stakeholders on the huge responsibility on their shoulders and the need to stand up
to the challenge.
As the world marks International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation, hopes are that it will not only be accepted by all nations of the world, but will inspire necessary changes for the préservation of womanhood.
