Family Attacks Man, Threatens Him For Refusing To Circumcise His Daughter

A Lagos Island resident, Yusuf Abiodun, has cried out for help after allegedly being attacked and threatened by his family and community members for refusing to circumcise his infant daughter.

The shocking incident has sparked outrage, raising questions about the clash between cultural traditions and modern human rights values.

According to a petition submitted by Abiodun to the Assistant Inspector General of Police, Zone 2 Headquarters, Onikan, Lagos, the ordeal began on December 26, 2022, just ten days after his daughter’s first birthday.

He was summoned by an elder in his family, identified as Fijabi, who demanded that his daughter undergo circumcision.

Abiodun refused the demand, explaining that he had witnessed the pain, trauma, and complications his younger sister experienced during her circumcision.

Determined to protect his daughter from a similar fate, he firmly rejected the idea, but his decision was met with hostility.

The situation escalated on September 15, 2023, when Abiodun was ambushed and physically attacked by some family members and community associates on his way back from work. They issued an ultimatum, threatening that his daughter would be taken away from him if he did not comply with their demands.

Despite lodging an official complaint with the police on September 16, 2023, Abiodun lamented the lack of immediate action, as officers reportedly dismissed the case as a “traditional matter.”

Days later, he received a threatening call from an unknown number warning him that his daughter’s circumcision would be carried out by force.

The threats came to a head on September 19, 2023, when elders from his family stormed his house, attempting to forcefully circumcise his daughter. Abiodun, in a desperate bid to protect his child, intervened and fought off the intruders.

His wife, Zainab Temitope, was reportedly left in tears as their young daughter clung to her father in fear.

With the help of neighbors who responded to their cries for help, Abiodun managed to chase the attackers away. He later petitioned the police, prompting an investigation.

Authorities have since visited the scene, arrested some suspects, and advised Abiodun to relocate to a safer location for his family’s protection.

Meanwhile, efforts are ongoing to apprehend all those involved and ensure justice is served.