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Female genital mutilation in Nigeria

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By Dawn

Over 20% of Nigerian women have undergone forced (FGM) as a child.

Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) is a procedure where the female genitals are deliberately cut, injured or changed. It is also known as female circumcision or female genital cutting. FGM is usually carried out on young girls between the ages of four and fourteen, before they reach puberty. The procedure is typically performed by a traditional circumciser using a razor or knife. It is often done without anaesthesia. FGM has no health benefits for girls and women. On the contrary, it can cause a number of serious health problems including, severe pain, excessive bleeding, swelling, fever and infections.

FGM is a cultural practice that is rooted in gender inequality and the belief that women’s sexuality should be controlled. FGM is often motivated by the desire to control women’s sexual activity and to reduce their ability to experience sexual pleasure. FGM is a violation of the human rights of girls and women and is recognized as a form of child abuse. There is no medical justification for FGM, and it has significant negative consequences for the physical and mental health of females.

There is no explicit mention of FGM in holy texts.

This practice is typically carried out by traditional healers or midwives, and is often considered a cultural or religious practice. It is thought to have originated in Egypt, and it is still prevalent in many African countries today. It is estimated that there are over 200 million girls and women who have undergone FGM worldwide. There is no medical justification for the practice of FGM, and it has been recognized as a human rights violation by the World Health Organization.

There is no explicit mention of Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) in either the Bible, but some scholars have argued that the practice may be condoned by certain passages in these texts.  Some interpret this as a mandate for the practice of FGM, as it is seen as a way to prevent women from engaging in sexual activity outside of marriage. Others argue that the passage is not referring to FGM specifically, but is instead a general instruction for Abraham to follow the covenant of circumcision. Regardless of the interpretation, it is clear that there is no explicit mention of FGM in either of these holy texts.

Imo State has decided to abandon the practice of (FGM).

There is no explicit mention of Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) in the Quran. However, there are a number of hadith, or sayings attributed to the Prophet Muhammad, that mention the practice. It is important to note that there is no consensus among Muslims on the interpretation of the text.

It is estimated that 29 communities in Oguta Local Government of Imo State have decided to abandon the illegal and harmful practice of Female Genital Mutilation (FGM). The decision of these communities to abandon FGM is a positive step towards protecting the health and well-being of women and girls. However, it is important to note that this is just the first step in a long journey. These communities will need continued support to ensure that the practice is truly abolished.

About 20% of Nigerian women have undergone FGM.

There is no one answer to explain how (FGM) affects Nigerian women, as this practice varies greatly from region to region within Nigeria. However, according to a 2013 UNICEF report, it is estimated that about 20% of Nigerian women have undergone FGM. This figure is likely to be higher in certain areas of the country, such as in the North, where the practice is more prevalent.


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