Ambassador Olufolake AbdulRazaq, First Lady of Kwara State, has called for the complete eradication of female genital mutilation (FGM), labelling it a serious violation of girls' rights and a harmful tradition that must end.

The declaration was made at a stakeholders' engagement forum organised by the Kwara State Ministry of Women Affairs in Ilorin, where the First Lady was represented by Dr Fatimah Nna, Commissioner for Social Development. She described FGM as a barbaric act of violence against girls, stressing that it must cease to protect their dignity, health, and future.

The Emir of Ilorin, Dr Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, also pledged strong support for the campaign against FGM and gender-based violence. Represented by Balogun Alanamu of Ilorin, Dr Usman Abubakre Jos, the Emir vowed that traditional leaders would ensure perpetrators of FGM face justice.

"The traditional institution will not condone any form of violence against women. We will support efforts to ensure violators face the consequences of their actions," the Emir stated.

The Commissioner for Women Affairs, Mrs Opeyemi Folashade, noted that FGM causes lifelong physical and psychological damage to victims.

She reaffirmed the ministry's commitment to eradicating the practice and emphasised the pivotal role traditional rulers play in the effective implementation of the Child Rights Law.

Mr Femi Oyedeji, the State Focal Person for the National Coalition of Civil Society warned that offenders of FGM would face up to four years imprisonment or a fine of N200,000 or both.

He added that anyone found guilty of child marriage could be sentenced to three years in prison or pay a fine of N500,000, or both.