Perceived Economic Gains and the Perpetuation of Female Genital Mutilation in Osun State Nigeria

The prevalence of Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) in Nigeria is alarming. In Osun State, the prevalence of FGM is 45.9%%, making it one of the highest in Nigeria. This paper examines the prevalence from the perspective of the perceived economic, social, and cultural gains associated with its practice. Through empirical analysis of interview and focus group data, the paper explored the underlying economic motivation, camouflaged as adherence to cultural and social customs, that drive its practice despite legal and advocacy efforts to curb it. Using the theoretical lenses of social norms, feminism, and cultural relativism, the paper argues that the underlying perceived gains associated with the FGM practices are the factors that drive its prevalence. The study discovered that the entrenched vested interests of practitioners and stakeholders perpetuate the practice of FGM. Despite various campaigns and advocacy, FGM remains an acceptable cultural identity, reinforced by social norms and supported by economic gains and profit. The paper submits that the government should prioritise the implementation and enforcement of anti-FGM statutes and initiate public support for victims

Cultural values · Enforcement · Female circumcision · Focus group · Statute · Female Genital Mutilation/Cutting Issues · Religion, Gender, and Enlightenment · Ureteral procedures and complications