A Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO), True Life Worldwide Organisation, has raised concerns over threats to the lives of its members due to their advocacy against female genital mutilation (FGM).
According to the organisation’s Public Relations Officer, Madam Victoria Ayodele, the family of Mrs Koloko Ajoke Suliyat, whose husband hails from Ekiti State, recently stormed the NGO’s office, demanding the whereabouts of Mrs Koloko and her daughter, Adesewa Dorcas. They believed the mother and child were taking refuge at the organisation’s premises.
The NGO has denounced female genital mutilation as a blatant form of child abuse, citing the tragic loss of Mrs Koloko’s first daughter, Koloko Adesimbo Darasimi, who died due to the procedure. The incident, which occurred on 2nd September 2023, forced Mrs Koloko and her surviving daughter, Adesewa, to flee for safety, seeking refuge with the NGO while threats against them persisted.
As an orphan, Mrs Koloko stated that she could not bear to lose both of her children in the name of tradition. The NGO has since provided protection for the mother and daughter against her husband’s family, who insist on enforcing the harmful practice.
The organisation reiterated its commitment to humanitarian work and supporting victims of female genital mutilation, condemning the widespread suffering inflicted on women across the country by outdated and harmful customs.
“We ensured there was no opportunity for violence during the confrontation,” Ayodele stated, affirming the NGO’s efforts to safeguard Mrs Koloko and her daughter while advocating for their fundamental rights.
Due to persistent threats, Mrs Koloko and her daughter have now fled to France in search of protection.
