The Delta State Government has issued a stern warning to medical personnel providing family planning services to underage girls.
The State Commissioner for Justice and Attorney General (AG), Ohwovoriole Ekemejero SAN, delivered the warning at the World Contraception Day event held in Asaba, the state capital.
Represented by Mrs Patricia Akanagwuna, Director of Sexual Offences and Domestic Violence Unit, Ohwovoriole emphasized that providing family planning services to minors without parental or guardian consent is illegal. He stressed that anyone involved in such practices would face prosecution.
While advising medical personnel to respect individual women’s rights to reproductive health, Ohwovoriole also reminded them of the importance of confidentiality in providing contraceptive services.
Dr Joseph Onojaeme, the Commissioner for Health, highlighted the purpose of the family planning town hall meeting as a platform to educate individuals about their reproductive rights. He encouraged women to adopt family planning for their own benefit.
Dr Paul U., the Executive Director of the State Primary Health Development Agency, called upon stakeholders, including local government chairmen, to provide financial support for family planning initiatives.
