Among the many socio-cultural issues in Nigeria and parts of Africa, female genital mutilation (FGM) remains one of the most pervasive, despite numerous efforts to eliminate it. Often, the practice is justified by claims that it increases a woman’s marriage prospects or reduces promiscuity. However, this claim has no basis in health benefits, and the practice continues to harm girls and women in significant ways, as highlighted by the World Health Organization (WHO).
According to the WHO, FGM includes any procedure involving the partial or total removal of external female genitalia or other injury to female genital organs for non-medical reasons. It is not only extremely painful but also exposes the girl-child to serious health risks. Yet, in some communities, women are even dismissed from their marital homes or face mistreatment if they object to the circumcision of their daughters.
Globally, FGM is considered a severe violation of the fundamental human rights of women and girls. This underscores the urgent need to assess the effectiveness of Nigeria’s Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act (VAPP), which was enacted on May 25, 2015, to criminalize FGM and other forms of gender-based violence. The VAPP Act is designed to prohibit gender-based violence in both public and private spaces by imposing penalties for acts like rape (excluding spousal rape), incest, domestic violence, stalking, harmful traditional practices, and FGM.
Unfortunately, many cases of FGM go unreported, as women often fear the consequences of involving law enforcement, particularly when their husbands’ families are the perpetrators. In Nigerian society, reporting such cases can lead to divorce, leaving women vulnerable to psychological distress, financial insecurity, and social stigmatization. Women who are financially dependent on their husbands may find themselves in dire situations, struggling with the loss of income and societal judgment.
Furthermore, coercion continues to play a significant role in perpetuating FGM. In-laws, particularly in traditional settings, often apply pressure on women to allow the procedure, using threats, physical abuse, or financial manipulation. Many women, fearing repercussions, are reluctant to speak out or even conceal their identities when discussing these issues publicly. This reflects the deep-rooted fear and psychological trauma many women endure.
Reports from various parts of Nigeria—including the South-East, South-West, South-South, and Northern regions—confirm that this practice remains widespread. According to a 2022 publication by UNICEF, approximately 19.9 million women in Nigeria have undergone FGM, placing the country third in the global rankings for the number of women and girls affected. The majority of these victims are aged between 0-14 years. Sadly, this number continues to rise each year.
In stark contrast, in many Western countries, FGM is unequivocally banned, and perpetrators face severe legal consequences, including prison sentences. As a result, some Nigerian women, fearing for their daughters’ safety, have sought asylum in these countries to escape the practice.
Despite Nigeria’s legal frameworks, including laws that criminalize FGM, many communities still prioritize tradition over legal protections. In some cases, wealthy and influential individuals may even bribe law enforcement officers, further undermining the justice system. This leaves victims with little recourse and no real protection.
Therefore, it is critical to intensify advocacy efforts to end FGM. Comprehensive education campaigns and real empowerment for women are essential. Empowering women economically will reduce their dependency on their husbands and give them the autonomy to protect their daughters from harmful practices.
