Professor Ugwu: FGM Drops by 85% in Abakaliki, Ebonyi State

A cultural analyst, Professor Anthony Ugwu, has stated that the long-standing practice of Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) has drastically decreased by 85% in Abakaliki Local Government Area of Ebonyi State.

Professor Ugwu, a retired deputy director of the National Orientation Agency (NOA), shared this information on Wednesday in Abakaliki.

He attributed the reduction to various policy interventions by the government.

Ugwu noted that poor network systems and inadequate awareness have been significant challenges in eradicating FGM, particularly in rural areas. He explained that circumcision had been a traditional practice for centuries.

He commended USAID, UNICEF, and local, state, and federal governments for their efforts in combating FGM in Abakaliki Local Government Area.

“Before now circumcision was normal and acceptable. It started increasing for the past 20 to 25 years. As a social analyst, l would say that the cases is coming down,” he said.

Ugwu dismissed claims that FGM/cutting is on the rise in Abakaliki Local Government Area. He urged relevant authorities to deploy more qualified personnel to rural areas to achieve the complete eradication of the practice.

“I blame lack of proper orientation and awareness. Female genital mutilation is a public health challenge and seems to be secretly practiced in our rural communities despite efforts by various governments to eradicate it,” Ugwu added.