Victoria Inyama apologizes for comments on female circumcision

Nollywood actress Victoria Inyama has publicly apologized following criticism over her earlier comments about female circumcision.

Speaking candidly, she explained that the controversy began during a recent appearance on a talk show with Daddy Freeze.

According to her, the discussion had been centered on social issues, and she was simply sharing her thoughts on what she believed to be the historical reasons behind certain practices.
“A few weeks ago, on a talk show with Daddy Freeze, we were talking about issues like we always do, and I was just mentioning the root cause of certain issues and what I think or why I think it was done at that time. That’s where the FGM thing came up,” she said.

Inyama admitted that her understanding of female genital mutilation (FGM) was limited at the time. She said she had assumed it was a less severe procedure and was unaware of the extent of harm it causes in many cases.

“Our ancestors thought that female circumcision would control the urges of women; unfortunately, I didn’t know the gravity of what it is in most places,” she added. “FGM is bad. A midwife called me to explain this, and now I understand.”

Reflecting on her previous assumptions, she clarified that her personal experience had shaped her misunderstanding. “It is nothing like what I went through; I never knew they stitched and thought it was just the basics,” she explained.

The actress also shared a personal story that deepened her awareness. “Even my prophetess in church, who is like my mother, told me she was in the hospital for a week over her episode, and she was only 15.”

Clearly remorseful, Inyama acknowledged that her earlier remarks may have come across as insensitive or uninformed.

“For that to have happened to her and to everybody out there, I am sorry if my argument and comment came across as uninformed. Yes, I was totally uninformed about this FGM thing; now I am informed. So, now I am going to do better,” she said.
Her apology comes after widespread backlash, with many calling for more awareness and sensitivity when discussing such a serious issue.

Female genital mutilation (FGM) in Nigeria is a long-standing cultural practice rooted in beliefs about controlling female sex.uality, preserving purity, and preparing girls for marriage. It has been practiced across different ethnic groups, especially in parts of southern Nigeria, often as a tradition passed down through generations. 

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However, increased awareness of its serious health r!sks and human rights implications has led to growing opposition. Efforts by the government, including the Vi0lence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act, and organizations like United Nations Children’s Fund have helped reduce its prevalence, though it still persists in some communities due to deep cultural beliefs.