Callers shocked that FGM is still an issue, Osun State, Nigeria

By Dauda Yusuf,

Together with the Sustainable Development Initiative (SDI)

Objective:

To Commemorate the Day of Zero Tolerance for FGM
To further increase public awareness of FGM abandonment, and the short and long-time effects of FGM.

Radio Programme:

Brief Description of the Project:

The Broadcasting Corporation OSBC radio 104.5 FM ran a radio show where Mr. Ademola Adebisi an FGM/ Gender Based Activist (Executive Director, Value Reorientation for Community Enhancement), Olorunfemi Bukola Emilola an FGM survival and a Child rights Advocate and Imam Alimi Muideen Olatunde were the guests, The programme was anchored by Mrs. Olusola Ayesebolatan Marcus an OAP.

The discussion included FGM and the 4 principles of the Convention on the Rights of the Child:

1. Non-Discrimination

2. Best interests of the Child

3. The right to survival and development

4. The views of the child.

Emphases were more on the right of the Girl Child, FGM abandonment, FGM being a violation of human rights, and Rape.

Phone in:

Agbaje from Ile-Ife in Osun State also corroborated the FGM abandonment campaign and enjoined the listeners to stop the heinous act. He further prayed for both the organizer and the sponsor of the enlightenment program on the radio.

Omowumi from Ilesa from Ede, Osun state was the next contributor from home to the program.

"I am surprised that it is taking so long time to convince people to stop the cruel and barbaric act of FGM on their biological children." Omowumi from Ilesa Click To Tweet

He advocated for stiffer punishment for the perpetrators of FGM. He also pleaded for a robust welfare package for the survivors of FGM in our society.

Another caller on the program, Oke from Imesi Ile, Osun State, while appreciating the guests, declared that:

"FGM has become a bygone issue in our present-day society and that anyone who is still indulging in FGM is a criminal and should be treated as such." Oke from Imesi Ile, Osun State Click To Tweet

Adebayo from Osogbo Osun State was the next contributor to the programme. He shared:

"After listening to this radio sensitization I agree to help stop FGM." Adebayo from Osogbo Osun State Click To Tweet "However, there's no visible harm to the alleged survivors of FGM, and that, that is why it is difficult for some to understand to take the campaign seriously." Adebayo from Osogbo Osun State Click To Tweet

Mr. Olatunbosun from Ilesa, Osun State expressed joy at this sensitization. He explained that everyone must obey the government ruling on FGM in their interest.