International Day of Zero Tolerance on Female Genital Mutilation: CHRICED Calls for a Concerted Efforts to Fight Against FGM

By: Michael Mike

The Resource Centre for Human Rights and Civic Education (CHRICED) has reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to the eradication of the harmful practice of female genital mutilation which is still prevalence across Nigeria and the broader African continent.

The commitment was contained in a statement issued on Wednesday to mark the International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation (FGM),

According to the statement, FGM is not merely a cultural issue; it is a profound violation of human rights that inflicts severe physical and psychological harm on countless women and girls. The repercussions of FGM extend far beyond the immediate physical injuries, leading to long-term health complications, emotional trauma, and social stigmatization that can hinder the affected individuals’ ability to lead fulfilling lives.

The statement read that: “In Nigeria, the fight against FGM is bolstered by the nation’s commitment to international standards, particularly the United Nations Resolution aimed at the elimination of this practice. The Nigerian government has taken significant steps to address this issue through the enactment of progressive legislation.

“One notable piece of legislation is the Violence Against Persons Prohibition Act of 2015, which explicitly criminalizes all forms of violence, including the practice of FGM on minors. This law represents a critical step forward in protecting the rights and well-being of vulnerable populations.

“Additionally, the National Gender Policy serves as a framework for promoting gender equality and safeguarding the rights of women and girls. It explicitly prohibits FGM and other harmful traditional practices that target women and girls, reflecting a broader commitment to fostering an environment where all individuals can thrive free from violence and discrimination.”

The statement added that: “However, recent reports from the Nigeria Demographic and Health Survey reveals that about 20% of women aged 15 to 49 have experienced FGM. According to UNICEF, Nigeria accounts for the third highest number of women and girls who have undergone FGM worldwide. In certain regions, the practice remains deeply entrenched in community traditions, leaving many young girls vulnerable.

“Across Africa, the scale of the problem is even larger, with over 200 million women and girls affected by FGM and nearly 3 million girls at risk each year. These figures remind us that behind every statistic lies a story of pain and lost potential.

“CHRICED is deeply concerned about the health consequences of FGM as outlined in several policy documentations which are not limited to immediate complications such as severe bleeding, pain, shock, tetanus and other infections and complications during childbirth (affecting both the mother and the child). In the long-term, sexual and reproductive health may be adversely affected including gynaecological problems such Introduction as fistula, increased need for subsequent surgeries, emotional suffering, and lack of sexual enjoyment.

“Sexual and reproductive health challenges also include “complications during childbirth, anaemia, the formation of cysts and abscesses, keloid scar formation, damage to the urethra resulting in urinary incontinence, dyspareunia (painful sexual intercourse), sexual dysfunction, hypersensitivity of the genital area and increased risk of HIV transmission.

“CHRICED recognizes that the eradication of FGM requires a multifaceted approach that includes education, community engagement, and the empowerment of women and girls. It is essential to raise awareness about the dangers of FGM and to challenge the cultural norms that perpetuate this practice. By working collaboratively with communities, stakeholders, and policymakers, we can create a future where women and girls are protected from harm and can enjoy their rights fully.”

The statement disclosed that: “At CHRICED, our mission is to empower communities and safeguard the rights, health, and dignity of every woman and girl. By collaborating with government agencies, non-governmental organizations, and local influencers, we are steadily building a future where FGM is no longer tolerated. The progress we have witnessed, from communities rejecting the practice to traditional leaders embracing alternative rites of passage, demonstrates that change is indeed possible when we work together.”

It added that: “As we observe this important day, CHRICED calls on all stakeholders, policymakers, community leaders, healthcare professionals, and every concerned citizen, to join us in the fight against FGM. This should form priority in every conversation, every community meeting, and every act of advocacy, until our efforts bring us closer to a Nigeria and Africa where every girl can grow up free from the threat of FGM, confident in her right to a healthy, dignified life.

“We call on both the National and State Houses of Assembly to promote the implementation/ enforcement of existing laws and the adoption of legal frameworks in states where such do not currently exist, towards the elimination of FGM, this is in line with the National Action Plan Against Female Genital Mutilation 2021-2025.

“We remain determined to work with other CSOs and health medical practitioners to expand our outreach, deepen our community engagement, and strengthen our support systems for survivors. Together, we can create a future where every woman and girl have the opportunity to thrive without the shadow of FGM looming over her life. Let us stand united on this International Day of Zero Tolerance on FGM as we work towards a world where every woman and girl is safe, respected, and empowered.”

International Day of Zero Tolerance on Female Genital Mutilation: CHRICED Calls for a Concerted Efforts to Fight Against FGM

ECOWAS Court President Receives the Ambassador of Guinea-Bissau

By: Michael Mike

The President of the ECOWAS Court of Justice, Honourable Justice Ricardo Cláudio Monteiro Gonçalves has welcomed His Excellency, Mr. João Ribeiro Butiam Có, Ambassador of the Republic of Guinea Bissau and Permanent Representative to ECOWAS, during a courtesy visit to the Court in Abuja, Nigeria.

The courtesy and working visit provided an opportunity to discuss key regional issues, including the current state of the ECOWAS Community.

The meeting also addressed the main challenges facing the ECOWAS Court of Justice, particularly regarding the enforcement of its rulings and the impact of the withdrawal of three member states from the Community.

Furthermore, both parties exchanged views on the socio-political situation in the region, emphasizing the importance of maintaining peace, security, and democratic governance across ECOWAS member states.

Honourable Justice Gonçalves expressed his appreciation for the visit, highlighting the Court’s commitment to upholding justice and promoting the rule of law within the ECOWAS region. He reaffirmed the Court’s readiness to work with all stakeholders to address the challenges arising from recent regional developments.

ECOWAS Court President Receives the Ambassador of Guinea-Bissau

WADEMOS Asks ECOWAS to Prioritize Citizens Interest, Security of Region in Post-Exit Dialogue with AES

By: Michael Mike

The West Africa Democracy Solidarity Network (WADEMOS Network), a transnational Network of CSOs, across the West African sub-region has called on the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) in its proposed post-exit dialogue with the three nation of Alliance des États du Sahel (AES), Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger, to take the wider interest of community citizens and the security of the region a top priority

In a statement on Friday, the WADEMOS Network urged the parties to prioritize inclusive solutions in the interest of millions of citizens in the region, stating that: “The network remains convinced that regional integration is essential to meet the common challenges of our states.”

The statement read: “We further recognize the importance of the Sahel States to protect their national sovereignty while responding to the urgent needs of security, development, and autonomy in a complex geopolitical context. Indeed, economic and trade-related activities should provide deep reflection for the AES and countries in the sub-region, particularly because multilateralism offers mutual benefits for resolving cross-border challenges and promoting regional peace and security.

“In light of the above, WADEMOS Network urges the Sahel States’ leaders and ECOWAS to consider as follows:

“Following the expiry of the one-year mandatory notice of exit of member countries from ECOWAS, there are still many issues to be resolved requiring the two parties to sustain and promote dialogue and negotiation. These dialogues must consider
and reflect the wider interest of community citizens and the security of the region.

“The WADEMOS Network therefore urges the parties to prioritize inclusive solutions
in the interest of millions of citizens in the region. The network remains convinced
that regional integration is essential to meet the common challenges of our states.

“ECOWAS should undertake a comprehensive review of its revised treaty and organs and the complementary frameworks to align strategically with the current and emerging context and restore trust and confidence. The ECOWAS of Citizens, through the introduction of ECOSOC, must be integral to the future of ECOWAS.

“We, therefore, commend ongoing efforts for the formation of ECOSOC and call on
ECOWAS to accelerate the process, being the only organ yet to be constituted.
The future and sustainability of ECOWAS will largely depend on how it connects
vertically with community citizens. It is undeniable that the regional bloc requires
fundamental reforms, especially in the areas of conflict prevention, management,
resolution, peacekeeping, and security, in addition to democracy and good
governance. As a civil society intervention, WADEMOS Network will continue to
mobilize, engage, and support ECOWAS towards building a strong, democratic,
and safe region.

“We recommend a review of the ECOWAS sanction regime and response to the
Unconstitutional Change of Governments (UCG) as a tool for strengthening
compliance and respect for democratic values and principles. We urge ECOWAS
to place more emphasis on supporting member countries through the revised
frameworks to improve democratic governance, strengthen democratic institutions, and promote cross-border opportunities for addressing the youth bulge and related social threats and challenges.

“Additionally, ECOWAS institutions and member countries should remain committed to the Standby Force (SF), which has been activated for counterterrorism operations, particularly in areas affected by instability, including Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger.”

The statement further added that: “Finally, we urge the AES to reconsider and rescind the exit decision in the interest of
ECOWAS citizens and to explore the 6-month window provided by ECOWAS as the
transition continues. While the pursuit of national sovereignty and the fight against neo-colonial exploitation are vital, cutting ties with a robust regional alliance risks undermining the significant benefits the people enjoy.

“The WADEMOS Network encourages leaders to consult their citizens more and to
integrate their concerns into the decision-making process to guarantee solutions that truly benefit the population.”

WADEMOS Asks ECOWAS to Prioritize Citizens Interest, Security of Region in Post-Exit Dialogue with AES