A non-government organization (NGO), Good Health Alert (GHA), has tasked government at all levels on the need to declare female circumcision an emergency in Nigeria
Speaking against the backdrop of the fleeing of one Mrs. Aregbeshola Taiwo Adebowale to an unknown destination over an alleged attempt to forcefully circumcise her baby by her in-laws in Abeokuta, Ogun State, the Convener of the group, Mr. Innocent Maduka described the act as criminal and unfortunate.
According to him, it was very sad that despite awareness campaigns by government and groups across the country, female circumcision remains an issue across the country.
“We are indeed saddened abut the case of Mrs. Aregbeshola Taiwo Adebowale and her baby at this time of our history
“GHA is particularly peeved that the health and safety of the young mother and her baby are in jeopardy at this time.
“Under ideal circumstances, those who have made life a living hell for these people ought to have been arrested, prosecuted and jailed.
“Unfortunately, all efforts to locate mother and child have been rather difficult, to enable us and other well meaning Nigerians offer help as they are said to be suffering psychological torture and are constantly on the run.
“This is most unfortunate, especially coming from people who are supposed to take care of them at this time when their support is most needed,
“We are appealing to government to take urgent steps to declare female circumcision a national emergency, in order to save Nigerians the agony Mrs. Aregbeshola Taiwo Adebowale and her baby are currently going through”
