Kwara State government has warned people of the state against engaging in female genital mutilation. It also warned those engaging in the practice to desist or face legal consequences.
The commissioner for social development, Dr Mariam Imam, who issued the warning, advised the people to adequately secure the future of their female children, as there are long-term disadvantages of female genital mutilation.
Imam spoke during a sensitisation tour of local government areas to educate the people on the implications of engaging in female circumcision.
The tour was organised by the ministry in collaboration with Global Hope for Women and Children Foundation (GLOHWOC) with support of the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF).
The commissioner, who was represented by the director, social welfare in the ministry, Kayode James, explained that genital mutilation could cause low libido and put the health of the affected person at risk.
At Bode Saadu, Ijagbo, Ira, Okaka, Taiwo, Isale Koto, among other places visited, Imam disclosed that individuals caught practicing female genital mutilation are predisposed to imprisonment terms.
She urged the people to report anyone that violates the law to appropriate authorities for proper action.
