Nollywood actress Victoria Inyama has publicly apologized for her controversial remarks on female circumcision, following widespread backlash on social media. The actress made the comments during a live Instagram chat with media personality Daddy Freeze, where she shared that she underwent circumcision while living with her grandmother in the village. She described the experience in a positive light, even stating it had empowered her personally, which sparked intense criticism from many online users who condemned her perspective as insensitive and misinformed.
The backlash grew quickly as social media users highlighted the serious health and human rights issues associated with female genital mutilation (FGM). Many pointed out that Inyama’s personal experience may not reflect the painful and often traumatic realities faced by countless girls and women across Nigeria and other parts of Africa. Her comments were seen as downplaying a deeply harmful practice that is widely recognized as a violation of women’s rights.
In response, Inyama released a video apology through Daddy Freeze’s Instagram page. She admitted she had not fully understood the gravity of FGM and acknowledged that her remarks were uninformed. She explained that she only realized the seriousness of the issue after receiving feedback from close friends and family, including a midwife who educated her on the medical complications associated with the practice.
Inyama also shared that a prophetess in her church, whom she regards as a mother figure, told her she had spent a week in the hospital due to complications from FGM at the age of 15. This personal revelation deeply affected her and contributed to her decision to apologize. She emphasized that her experience was vastly different from what many girls endure today, especially with the added trauma of stitching and severe pain.
“I didn’t know the gravity of what it is in most places. FGM is bad,” Inyama said in her apology. She expressed regret for how her comments may have been perceived and stressed that she is now actively learning more about the issue. She promised to be more thoughtful and informed in future discussions, especially on sensitive topics affecting women’s health and rights.
Her apology has been met with mixed reactions, with some applauding her willingness to acknowledge her mistake, while others remain skeptical about the sincerity of her remorse. Nonetheless, the incident has reignited conversations about the need for greater awareness and education on FGM in Nigeria. As the country continues to work toward eliminating the practice, public figures like Inyama are seen as having a responsibility to speak with care and accuracy on such critical issues.
Leave a Comment