The Ekiti State government has warned that violence against women and girls shall not be condoned under any guise ,urging members of the public to expose individuals or groups violating the rights of women and girls .
The government gave this warning during market Sensitization to end violence against women and girls .The programme was organized by the Ekiti State Ministry of Health and Human Services in collaboration with the Office of the Governor and Civil Society Organizations (CSOs).
The event, which was part of the 16 days of activism, against gender based Violence took place in the markets in the three Senatorial Districts,Ado-Ekiti (Ekiti Central) , Ikere -Ekiti (Ekiti South) and Oye-Ekiti (Ekiti North Senatorial District).
The market Sensitization was led by the Commissioner of health , Oyebanji’ Fulani and Permanent Secretary, Mrs Olusola Gbenga- Igotun.
Officials from the ministry and members of the CSOs moved round the market places where they spoke against violence against women and girls . The campaign train visited Awedele and Agric- Olope markets on Ado- Ekiti, as well as Ikere and Oye-Ekiti markets .
They warned parents against FGM , describing it as
a harmful cultural practice and is unacceptable from a human rights as well as a public health perspective, regardless of who performs it.
Government warned that It can lead to immediate health risks, as well as a variety of long-term complications affecting women’s physical, mental and sexual health and well-being throughout the life-course.
“Female genital mutilation (FGM) has no health benefits, and it harms girls and women in many ways. The practice involves removing and injuring healthy and normal female genital tissue, interfering with the natural functions of girls’ and women’s bodies.
“All forms of FGM are associated with increased health risk in the short- and long-term.”
Some inscriptions on their placards read: “Say no to FGM” Every child has the right to make a choice about her own body “. “Let’s protect our girls and advocate for change” .
They cautioned men from beating their women ,but relate with them with dignity .
Earlier Olusola Gbenga- Igotun said ” December 1 to 16 is set aside to celebrate 16 days of activism and increase awareness of campaign against Female Genital Mutilations and gender based Violence, and that is what we are trying to tell our people what this stands for and how to prevent such violations in the society “.
Ekiti State has strong legislation against rape and Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), with punishments including life imprisonment for rapists and a potential four-year jail term or fine for FGM practitioners.