Members of the Olorunda-Abaa community in Lagelu Local Government Area of Oyo State have publicly declared their commitment to end Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), marking a significant step toward safeguarding the health, rights, and future of girls in the community.
Speaking at the declaration ceremony, the Ololorunda of Olorunda Abaa, His Royal Majesty, Oba Samuel Abiodun Folarin, urged residents to completely abandon the harmful practice. He emphasized that ending FGM is necessary to protect the girl child and align with modern health and safety standards.
Oba Folarin noted that the age-long practice has caused severe and lasting damage to countless girls and women, stressing the importance of embracing healthier, more protective cultural values.
In his goodwill message which opened the programme, the monarch called on community members to abide by the provisions of the Oyo State Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Law and ensure that FGM becomes a thing of the past in Olorunda-Abaa. He sensitized attendees on the dangers and long-term health implications associated with FGM, reinforcing the need for collective action to eliminate it.
The wife of the monarch also addressed the gathering, providing additional enlightenment on the consequences of FGM and encouraging residents to work together to eradicate the practice for the well-being of present and future generations.
A highlight of the event was the presentation of an award to Oba Folarin in recognition of his commitment, support, and leadership toward ending FGM in the community. The atmosphere was lively as residents celebrated the moment with songs and dances.
In his appreciation remarks, the monarch expressed gratitude to Frontida Zois Initiative (FZI), the Centre for Community Population and Reproductive Health (CCPRH), the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), and the Oyo State Government for bringing such an impactful programme to the community.
Addressing participants, the Chief Executive Officer of Frontida Zois Initiative (FZI), Mrs. Petra Ogunfowokan, explained that the programme was organised in collaboration with the Oyo State Ministries of Women Affairs and Social Inclusion, Justice, Health, and the Primary Healthcare Board, with technical support from the state government and CCPRH. She added that the event was funded under the UNFPA–UNICEF Joint Programme on the elimination of FGM.
