Family raises alarm over alleged abduction attempt linked to child circumcision threat

A Lagos-based family has raised alarm over alleged threats to their lives and an attempted abduction of their five-year-old daughter, reportedly over plans to subject her to female genital mutilation.

Mr Akinyede Olanrewaju and his wife, Ruth Akinyede, residents of 39,Olorunsogo street Meiran area of Lagos, told police they fled Ekiti State on the 21st of December 2023 following sustained pressure from extended family members insisting their daughter ( Akinyede Ireayomide Christiana ) be taken to the village for circumcision.

According to a police report dated January 18, 2024, the situation escalated dramatically when unidentified men allegedly attempted to seize their daughter while the family was on their way to drop the children at school earlier in 16th January 2024. The parents said they narrowly escaped after raising alarm, drawing the attention of passersby, whose swift response forced the suspects to retreat.

The couple further alleged that the head of the family, who was reportedly present at the scene, had repeatedly threatened to harm them if they refused to comply with the demand.

Police findings confirmed that the complainants’ statements were obtained, while invitations extended to the accused family members were not honoured.

It was also noted that no arrests had been made as of the time of filing the report.

Sources disclosed that the family has since gone into hiding amid growing fears for their safety, as the threats are said to be persistent and deeply unsettling, raising concerns that the situation could spiral further if urgent action is not taken.

Authorities advised the complainants to institute a civil suit, noting that any attempt to carry out the act of circumcision could attract criminal prosecution for grievous harm and abuse of a minor.

The case has once again brought to the fore the disturbing persistence of harmful traditional practices, with fears mounting that similar threats may be playing out quietly in other communities, putting vulnerable children at grave risk.