Traditional rulers in Ekiti State have united to declare an end to the harmful practice of female genital mutilation (FGM). This landmark decision was announced during an advocacy programme spearheaded by the Ekiti State Ministry of Women Affairs in collaboration with the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF). T
he event brought together monarchs and community leaders to reaffirm their commitment to eliminating FGM across the state.Speaking at the event, the monarchs emphasized the cultural and health implications of FGM, stressing that the practice poses significant risks to women’s physical and mental well-being.
They pledged to use their influence to promote awareness and discourage the practice within their communities, aligning with global efforts to protect women and girls from gender-based violence.The initiative is part of broader campaigns by the state government and international partners to ensure the full implementation of laws prohibiting FGM. Stakeholders, including traditional leaders, are playing key roles in fostering behavioural change to safeguard the rights and health of women and girls in Ekiti State.
