The Lagos State Ministry of Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation has taken its sensitisation and advocacy campaigns against female genital mutilation and forced child marriage to Alaba-Rago and Alaworo markets in the Ojo Local Government Area of the state.
The Permanent Secretary, MWAPA, Mrs Oluyemi Kalesanwo, who led the campaigns, charged residents, especially male residents of the areas, against all forms of harmful traditional practices.
“Your communities are recognised as vibrant settlements where significant impact can be made on these issues that are deeply rooted in harmful traditions, cultural beliefs and social norms, which we however, want a total stop to,” a statement on Tuesday quoted Kalesanwo to have said.
Speaking on the adverse effects of female genital mutilation, Kalesanwo, who was represented by the Director, Domestic Violence Unit, MWAPA, Ms Toyin Olorunfemi, reiterated that there was no medical or scientific basis for the practice.
She argued that the practice “induces infections, difficulties in chilbbirth and long-term emotional trauma in victims.”
She said a legal framework had been provided to prosecute perpetrators, noting that an offender risked four years imprisonment.
On child early marriage, the permanent secretary said, “It robs young girls of their childhood, education and opportunities, thus perpetuating a cycle of poverty, illiteracy, even as it hampers life choices.”
She called for total eradication of the practice, saying, “We cannot allow our girls who are born and groomed here in Lagos State to be forced into early marriage under 18 years of age, a stage whence they are not physically, mentally and emotionally ready.”
