Four communities in Ilorin East Local Government Area (LGA) of Kwara State - Baruba, Amule, Itadu, and Idiape in Balogun Gambari Ward 1, and Magaji Are Ward 1 have condemned the harmful practice of female genital mutilation (FGM) and praised the state government's efforts to combat it.

The communities expressed gratitude for initiatives led by the Kwara Ministry of Social Development and the Global Hope for Women and Children Foundation during a sensitisation programme on the dangers of FGM. The event, held in Ilorin East, was opened by a representative of the Social Development Commissioner.

Participants highlighted the need to sustain awareness campaigns and community engagement to eliminate FGM, acknowledging the state's leadership in enforcing anti-FGM laws and promoting gender equality.

The resource person and founder of Global Hope for Women and Children Foundation, Dr Christy Oluwole said the programme was organised "to build capacity for both men and boys, community leaders, religious leaders, artisans, teachers, civil servants, students and the general public in putting an end to the harmful practices of female genital mutilation in communities. "

She explained that FGM is an offence under the VAPP Act/law and the Child Rights Act /law with sanctions of four years imprisonment or N200,000 fine or both.