The Senior Special Assistant to the President on National Assembly Matters (House of Reps), Hon. Ibraheem Kunle Olarewaju, has described the advocacy of Ekiti State’s First Lady, Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji, against Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) as a “beacon of hope,” urging all well-meaning citizens to unite in eradicating the harmful practice from the state.
Dr. Oyebanji had earlier addressed members of the press and key stakeholders in Ado-Ekiti, stressing the moral urgency of protecting young girls from FGM. She highlighted a significant decline in the prevalence of the practice in Ekiti State, from 72% in 2024 to 48% in 2025, but emphasized that the fight is far from over.
Hon. Olarewaju, in a statement made available to the press, commended the First Lady’s leadership and persistent advocacy. He said her dedication represents a critical intervention in the struggle to safeguard the rights, dignity, and health of girls in the state.
“The First Lady’s intervention is not only timely but critical in protecting the rights and dignity of our girls. Her advocacy demonstrates the power of sustained commitment and community engagement in addressing this harmful practice,” Hon. Olarewaju said.
He further urged political leaders, traditional rulers, faith-based organizations, and community members to join hands with the First Lady’s office, emphasizing that collective action is necessary to ensure that no case goes unreported, no perpetrator escapes justice, and survivors receive care and support.
The presidential aide highlighted the role of relevant gender-focused initiatives and collaborations aimed at strengthening reporting mechanisms, providing assistance to victims, and educating communities on the dangers and illegality of FGM.
He described the First Lady’s campaign as a symbol of hope for Ekiti girls, noting that advocacy combined with law enforcement and community mobilization can finally put an end to the practice.
Hon. Olarewaju concluded by calling on all well-meaning Ekiti citizens to support the initiative, reiterating that unity, vigilance, and continuous engagement are key to protecting the next generation.
With the First Lady leading the charge and influential leaders like Hon. Olarewaju lending their voices, Ekiti State is taking concrete steps toward ending FGM, sending a message that the rights and dignity of girls will no longer be compromised.
