Filmmaker and actress Biodun Stephen has revealed that she underwent female circumcision at the age of six, describing the experience as profoundly painful and unforgettable.
In an interview with Diaryofanaijagirl, Stephen explained that the procedure was carried out by her grandmother as part of a longstanding family tradition. She added that her mother had also been subjected to the practice, reflecting its generational persistence.
Recounting the incident, Stephen said she was taken from her home under the pretense of an outing and made to feel comfortable before the procedure. She was asked to bathe and then instructed to lie on a mat prepared on the floor. The filmmaker described the experience as traumatic, leaving a lasting emotional and physical impact.
Stephen emphasized that the practice, though framed as a cultural ritual, left her with painful memories that continue to resonate in her adulthood. Her account highlights the deeply personal consequences of female circumcision, a practice still prevalent in some communities despite its well-documented health risks and human rights concerns.
The actress’s revelation adds to ongoing conversations in Nigeria and across Africa about the harmful effects of female circumcision. Health experts have repeatedly warned that the procedure can cause long-term physical complications, psychological trauma, and increases in medical risks for young girls.
Stephen’s testimony underscores the need for continued advocacy and education to challenge traditions that compromise the well-being of girls. By sharing her story, she aims to raise awareness and encourage dialogue about ending female circumcision while respecting cultural sensitivities.
Her candid account serves as a reminder of the personal toll such practices can have and reinforces the importance of protecting children from harmful cultural rituals.
