KNOWLEDGE AND PERCEPTION OF RESIDENTS OF EHOR COMMUNITY ON THE EFFECT OF FEMALE GENITAL MUTILATION

The aim of this study was to examined the knowledge and perception of residents of Ehor Community on the effect of female genital mutilation, four research questions were raised to guide the study. Do residents of Ehor community have adequate knowledge of the implications of female genital mutilation? What is the perception of residents of Ehor community on the effect of female genital mutilation? What is the level of practice of female genital mutilation among residents of Ehor community? What are the factors that promote the practice of female genital mutilation among residents of Ehor community?
The descriptive survey research design was used for this study. Population of the study consisted of comprise six thousand four hundred and forty-four (6,444) women in Ehor community in Uhunmwode Local Government Area of Edo State. A sample of one hundred and twenty-nine (129) women were randomly selected from the population. Questionnaire was the instrument used to elicit information from the respondents. The data collated were analyzed using the simple percentage, mean and standard deviation.
The findings from the study it was seen that FGM affect the health of women and girls also it was also revealed that FGM violate the right of women and girls. It was seen that FGM causes urination and sexual problem. The recommendation includes The Government needs to implement a national action plan on FGM which will provide statutory guidance and a strategy for ending the practice to all key stakeholders including professionals, NGOs and communities. Training for all statutory professionals on the identification, management and support of those at risk and affected by FGM should be conducted routinely. There is a need for increased awareness and understanding of the criminal law sanctions for FGM amongst the communities where it is practiced.