The National Human Rights Commission has called on stakeholders in women affairs to intensify efforts in eradicating the practice of female genital mutilation, FGM and all forms of violence against women.
The Executive Secretary, National Human Rights Commission, Mr Tony Ojukwu made the call in Abuja, at a media Conference organized by a non-governmental Organization, Women Against Violence and Exploitation (WAVE) Foundation in collaboration with the commission.
Represented by the Director, Women and Children Department, Mr Harry Obeh, Mr Ojukwu said that the girl-child was vulnerable and at a higher risk of being victims of abuse and all forms of exploitations thus the need to sustain efforts to prevent Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) and advance gender equality and human rights.
“The commission calls for intensified efforts to stop violence against women and girls.We pledge to increase support for the effort to prevent Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) and advance gender equality and human rights to live free of violence and discrimination,’’ He stated.
The Minister of Women Affairs, Dame Pauline Tallen, represented by Deputy Director, Women Development Department Mr Samaila Adamu, said FGM practice was a violation of the human rights, health and integrity of girls and women, hence the need to eradicate it through the involvement of traditional and religious leaders to bring an end to issues affecting women and girls.
”We advise anti-FGM advocates to be sensitive with their choice of words while conversing with local authorities. Rather than condemn the culture, explain the dangerous effects of their practices on the health of women and girls”. She noted.
A former Nigerian footballer and a champion on ending FGM in Nigeria, Mr Emmanuel Babayaro advised stakeholders to synergize to sustained the efforts in eradicating the practice.
Reporting by Azizatu Sani; Edited by Adeniyi Bakare