Blyden Urges First Lady to Probe Forced FGM Allegations

Blyden Urges First Lady to Probe Forced FGM Allegations

Sylvia Olayinka Blyden, Former Minister of Social Welfare, has appealed to the First Lady, Dr. Fatima Maada Bio, to actively address serious allegations of forced Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) concerning a 30-year-old woman in Moyamba District.

In a formal statement, Blyden urged the First Lady's support for a thorough and transparent investigation into the matter. She emphasized the gravity of the allegations, noting that the claims are serious and potentially criminal, requiring rigorous scrutiny by relevant authorities.

Blyden indicated that immediate intervention by state institutions is necessary, stressing the importance of coordination between social workers and the police to ensure all alleged perpetrators are fully investigated and questioned.

Furthermore, she cautioned that failing to conduct a comprehensive investigation could compromise national initiatives aimed at eradicating harmful traditional practices. She stressed that a failure to establish the facts would severely impede ongoing policy efforts against forced FGM.

The former minister also cited her previous work engaging with traditional leaders and soweis, which was part of broader governmental efforts to mitigate harmful traditional practices in Sierra Leonean communities.

She confirmed her intent to personally engage key stakeholders, including the First Lady, relevant cabinet ministers, and the Inspector General of Police, to secure urgent attention for the case. She concluded by asserting that the allegations must be thoroughly investigated, and accountability must be enforced if they are substantiated.

As of this time, official authorities have not issued a public response regarding her appeal.