FIDA Bayelsa Advocates The End of Cutting of Genital Organs of Women

The International Federation of Women Lawyers FIDA (Nigeria) Bayelsa State Branch has joined the world in commemoration of the International Day for Zero Tolerance for Female Genital mutilation in line with the United Nations sustainable Development goal.

In a press statement signed by its Deme Debra Pamosoo, chairperson, FIDA Nigeria Bayelsa State Branch and Doubra Preggie, Assistant Publicity Secretary FIDA Bayelsa in Yenagoa stressed the need to end cutting of the genital organs of women and girls.

According to the statement, “The International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital mutilation ( FGM) is observed annually on 6 February provides an opportunity for all stakeholders involved in ending FGM to celebrate achievements, advocate for abandonment of the practice and raise awareness.

“WHO and HRP invite all to raise their hands and voices to end the harmful practice of FGM.

“The 2023 theme “Partnership with men and boys to transform social and Gender Norms to end FGM”.

“FGM is a destructive harmful practice in which the female genital organs are completely removed. FGM has no medical benefit and only causes harm to women and girls.

“It is a barbaric harmful traditional practice which is a violation of the dignity and rights of women and girls. FGM is estimated to affect more than 200 million women and girls. Thankfully this harmful practice has been declining in recent decades although in countries where it has been practiced traditionally 1/3 of girls are still subjected to it.

“Even in countries where it has been practiced majority of men and women think it should end. FIDA Bayelsa advocates that this day serves as an opportunity for all stakeholders to get involved in ending FGM.

“For us in Bayelsa State we have the Bayelsa State Violence Against Persons Prohibition Law 2021 with particular reference to Section 7(1)(2)(3)(4)(5)&(6) which prohibits female Circumcision or Genital Mutilation.

“Say no to FGM! End FGM! End Cutting female genital organs of women and girls! Educate them! Preserve their dignity and rights for a better future!”, the statement stated.