CHELD raises concern over attempts to normalize FGM

The Center for Health, Ethics, Law and Development (CHELD) has condemned recent public statements by a prominent figure endorsing female genital mutilation (FGM), describing such remarks as dangerous and misleading.

The organisation expressed concern that narratives portraying FGM as beneficial could reverse years of progress made in Nigeria toward eliminating harmful traditional practices and protecting the rights of women and girls.

CHELD noted that Nigeria has recorded significant gains in addressing gender-based violence, including the criminalisation of FGM, warning that any attempt to normalise the practice undermines ongoing advocacy, policy efforts and community engagement.

According to the group, FGM is a recognised form of gender-based violence with no medical benefit. It is linked to severe health risks such as chronic pain, infections, complications during childbirth, psychological trauma, and, in extreme cases, death. The organisation stressed that claims suggesting otherwise contradict established medical and scientific evidence.

Citing the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act 2015, CHELD emphasised that FGM remains a criminal offence in Nigeria, with penalties for those who perform, aid, or abet the act. It added that various states have also enacted laws prohibiting gender-based violence, reinforcing the illegality of the practice nationwide.

The organisation further raised concerns about the influence of public figures, noting that their platforms could shape public opinion and potentially reinforce harmful cultural beliefs among communities already moving away from FGM.

“Statements that validate FGM can confuse individuals who are unlearning deeply rooted cultural norms and discourage those considering abandoning the practice,” the statement said.

While acknowledging that cultural beliefs evolve over time, CHELD maintained that harmful practices cannot be justified on cultural or personal grounds when they violate fundamental human rights and endanger lives.

The group called on public figures to exercise responsibility in their public statements, urging them not to promote actions that contravene the law or endanger public health. It also urged government agencies and law enforcement bodies to strengthen the enforcement of relevant laws, particularly the VAPP Act.

CHELD appealed to media organisations to prioritise accurate, evidence-based reporting on FGM, while encouraging community and religious leaders to intensify advocacy efforts aimed at ending the practice.

It also called on the public to reject narratives that trivialise or normalise FGM and to support initiatives focused on its eradication.

The organisation warned that Nigeria cannot afford any regression in the fight against harmful practices, stressing that gains made in awareness and behavioural change must be protected and sustained.

CHELD reaffirmed its commitment to promoting human rights, mental health, and the protection of vulnerable populations, pledging to continue advocating for a society where women and girls can live free from violence and discrimination.