Study of Community Responses to Female Genital Mutilation in Osun State

Female genital mutilation (FGM) persists in certain communities in South West Nigeria despite legislative prohibition and sustained advocacy efforts, reflecting the entrenched social norm functions the practice serves. This study examines community responses to anti-FGM interventions and the changing social dynamics around FGM in Osun State, focusing on communities in Ife Central, Irewole, and Orolu Local Government Areas. A qualitative-led mixed design was adopted, with 200 community members completing structured questionnaires and 50 women and community leaders participating in focus group discussions. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and thematic analysis. Findings reveal that FGM prevalence is declining in the study area, with younger women significantly less likely to have undergone the practice than older cohorts, reflecting the impact of sustained advocacy. However, community resistance to public discussion persists, and clandestine cutting remains reported in rural areas. Religious misattribution of FGM as an Islamic requirement is found to be a barrier to community abandonment, particularly where religious leaders have not been adequately engaged. Recommendations include continued engagement of traditional and religious leaders in community abandonment dialogues, strengthened enforcement of the Violence Against Persons Prohibition Act, and anonymous FGM reporting mechanisms accessible to community members. Keywords: female genital mutilation, community response, Osun State, gender, harmful practice