Advocacy groups have called for an end to female genital mutilation (FGM) and all forms of gender-based violence (GBV) in Abua/Odual Local Government Area of Rivers State.
The call was made during a community sensitisation programme held on February 27, 2026, in Abua, organised by the Royal Ladies of Obrakani with the theme, “Building a Zero-Tolerance Community Against GBV.” The outreach targeted students, teachers, local government officials and community leaders.
Chairperson of the International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA), Rivers State Branch, Tamunoibuemi Life-George, described FGM as a harmful traditional practice that violates the constitutional rights of women and girls.
She said the world had moved beyond customs that deprive women and girls of dignity and bodily autonomy, stressing that mutilating the genitalia of girls and women is unlawful and dangerous.
According to her, FGM has led to severe health complications, including maternal and child mortality, particularly in cases where pregnant women are forced to undergo the procedure before childbirth.
“This practice has caused more harm than good. Women who refused to undergo it are alive and healthy, and their children are doing well. It is time for this culture to be eradicated in Abua/Odual so that Rivers State can be free from such harmful traditions,” she said.
Life-George noted that FIDA has been carrying out periodic sensitisation campaigns across Rivers State to combat ignorance and promote awareness of the dangers associated with FGM and GBV.
Also speaking, Hajiah Asetemi Aishat, Project Coordinator and President of the Royal Ladies of Obrakani, said the group would intensify advocacy efforts across communities, markets, schools, churches and mosques in the area.
She emphasised that no woman deserves to suffer or die as a result of harmful traditional practices, adding that community elders and leaders were engaged to ensure grassroots support for the campaign.
Some female students who participated in the programme pledged to become advocates against FGM and other forms of abuse in their communities.
They urged victims of rape, molestation and other forms of violence to speak out and report cases to trusted adults, relevant authorities or organisations such as FIDA.
The organisers expressed optimism that sustained sensitisation and community engagement would help eliminate FGM and GBV practices in Abua/Odual.
