Biodun Stephen, a notable Nigerian filmmaker, recently shared her personal experience with female circumcision, or female genital mutilation (FGM), during an episode of Diary of a Naija Girl. This practice involves the partial or complete removal of external female genitalia for non-medical reasons and has deep cultural roots in various communities.
At just six years old, Stephen was circumcised by her grandmother. During the show, she described the event as a painful memory. She recalled how her grandmother lured her into the process by creating a comfortable atmosphere, allowing her to play and even eat beforehand. However, the mood changed quickly as she was taken to a mat on the floor, where the painful reality hit her. “The pain was searing,” she described.
FGM is not just a personal story; it’s a global issue affecting millions of girls. According to the World Health Organization, around 200 million women and girls worldwide have undergone this practice. It’s often perpetuated by deeply rooted traditions where cultural significance overrides health risks.
Experts emphasize the need for education and dialogue surrounding this issue. Dr. Esi Wusu, a health advocate, notes that while the practice is declining in some regions, it still poses serious risks including severe pain, complications during childbirth, and psychological trauma. Raising awareness can help challenge these cultural norms.
Social media has seen an increase in conversations about FGM, with many using platforms to share their stories and opinions about the practice. Movements advocating for women’s rights and health are gaining momentum, urging communities to abandon harmful traditions.
Biodun Stephen’s testimony not only sheds light on her personal journey but also highlights the broader impact of FGM on women and girls today. By sharing her story, she invites discussions that could lead to change.
For more on FGM and efforts to combat it, you can refer to WHO’s fact sheet on the issue.
