The President of the Defence and Police Officers’ Wives Association (DEPOWA), Mrs. Oghogho Gwabin Musa, has reiterated the association’s unwavering stance against Female Genital Mutilation, describing it as a harmful and unacceptable practice that violates the fundamental rights of women and girls.In a firm statement, Mrs. Musa condemned Female Genital Mutilation as a dangerous tradition with no medical benefits, warning that it causes severe physical, emotional, and psychological harm to millions of girls. She emphasized that beyond the immediate pain and health complications, the practice limits the potential of young girls and reinforces gender-based inequality.
“As we continue to advocate for the rights and dignity of women and girls, DEPOWA strongly opposes this practice. We will continue to raise awareness, support survivors, and work with stakeholders to put an end to Female Genital Mutilation in our communities,” Mrs. Musa stated.
She stressed that education, empowerment, and strong policies are crucial in eradicating the practice, calling on governments, civil society organizations, and community leaders to intensify efforts to protect vulnerable girls. Female Genital Mutilation, which is still practiced in parts of Nigeria and other regions around the world, has been widely condemned by the United Nations, the World Health Organization, and human rights organizations. Despite existing laws prohibiting it, the practice persists due to cultural beliefs and societal pressures. Mrs. Musa urged collective action to safeguard future generations, stating that ending Female Genital Mutilation is not just an ethical duty but a necessity for societal progress.
DEPOWA has been a strong voice in the fight against harmful practices affecting women and girls, and its latest call to action highlights the urgent need for stricter enforcement of laws against Female Genital Mutilation, alongside increased public awareness. As Nigeria continues to join global efforts to eliminate Female Genital Mutilation, stakeholders are encouraged to strengthen initiatives that promote gender equality, education, and improved healthcare services for at-risk communities.
