First Lady Fatima Bio Responds to Viral FGM Allegations in Moeba

First Lady Fatima Bio Responds to Viral FGM Allegations in Moeba

First Lady Fatima Maada Bio has responded to allegations made by a 30-year-old woman who claims she was forcibly initiated into the Bondo Society and subjected to Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) in Moeba community.

The allegations were made during a video interview with Truth Media by a woman identified under the pseudonym “Bintu Kamara,” who claims she was forcibly circumcised following a dispute linked to her relationship and tensions within her community. The claims have not been independently verified, and authorities say investigations are ongoing.

Responding to the allegations, Fatima Maada Bio said she does not support any form of circumcision carried out without consent, stressing that initiation into the Bondo Society should only take place voluntarily and for adults aged 18 and above.

“When I watched the video, I was concerned by the allegations because what was described is not a good thing,” she said.

She urged the alleged victim to cooperate with relevant authorities and pursue justice through appropriate legal channels, noting that accountability can only be established through proper investigation.

“If what happened to her is true, she should come forward so that those responsible can be held accountable,” she added.

The First Lady also addressed public discussions surrounding her association with the Bondo Society, stating that while she identifies as a circumcised woman and acknowledges her cultural background, she does not support forced or non-consensual initiation practices.

She emphasized that personal cultural experiences should not be used to justify harmful actions, and stressed the importance of respecting individual rights and consent.

“I am a traditional woman, and I will dance with them. Dancing with them does not mean I support circumcision of children,” she said.

Ministry of Gender and Children’s Affairs has confirmed awareness of the allegations and says it is engaging relevant agencies as part of ongoing processes.

Authorities further noted that investigations are continuing and no official conclusions have yet been reached.

The case has reignited national debate around FGM, consent, and traditional practices in Sierra Leone, with renewed calls for caution, legal clarity, and culturally sensitive dialogue as the matter is investigated.