Reasons for Female Circumcision Among Some Ethnic Groups in Bendel State, Nigeria

This study documents and analyses the reasons for female circumcision among 5 communities in Bendel State of Nigeria. The commonest reason given for female circumcision is the strong desire to continue the custom or tradition. Other reasons given for the practice in terms of preference are, to protect babies during delivery, for aesthetic or cosmetic purposes. to enhance reproduction, as well as to increase or decrease sexual urge of women. However, the authors hold the view that those explanations given for female circum­ cision arc subsumed under the issue of patriarchy or male-dominance, as well as under class and gender problems. Also this study is intended to provide the basis for planning the strate­ gies essential for the eradication or elimination of the practice.