How Circumcision Gave Me Authority Over My Body

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Nollywood actress Victoria Inyama has stirred widespread reactions after sharing her personal perspective on female circumcision during a recent social media interaction.

The actress made the remarks while speaking in an Instagram Live session with media personality Daddy Freeze, where she opened up about her childhood experience and how it has shaped her views on relationships and personal boundaries.

According to Inyama, she underwent circumcision at a young age while living with her grandmother in the village. Reflecting on the experience, she described it as something she believes has positively influenced her life, particularly in how she manages intimacy and self-control.

“Yes, I was circumcised. Because I grew up in the village with my grandmother, that is what is helping me. That’s the best thing they did for me. I swear to God because if I say I am not doing, I am not doing,” she said during the session.

The actress went further to explain that, in her view, the experience has given her a sense of authority over her personal decisions, especially in romantic situations. She suggested that it has strengthened her ability to set boundaries and remain firm in her choices.

“And that is the power that I have as a woman, and anybody who tries me, I will give you back. No one can say they saw me in hotels. That’s the best thing my grandmother did for me,” she added.

Her comments have since triggered intense conversations across social media platforms, with many users expressing differing opinions on the issue. While some individuals debated her personal interpretation of the experience, others raised concerns about the broader implications of such statements, given the global discourse surrounding the practice.

Female circumcision, often referred to as female genital mutilation (FGM), remains a highly sensitive and controversial topic worldwide. Health experts and human rights organisations have consistently warned about its physical and psychological effects, leading to ongoing campaigns against the practice in many countries, including Nigeria.

Despite this, Inyama’s remarks focused on her personal experience, which she framed as a source of discipline and empowerment in her own life. Her stance has, however, drawn criticism from those who argue that such narratives may conflict with public health advocacy efforts aimed at ending the practice.

The conversation has continued to gain traction online, with users, activists, and commentators weighing in on both the cultural and ethical dimensions of the issue. Some have emphasised the importance of separating individual experiences from broader societal impacts, while others have called for increased awareness about the risks associated with the practice.

As reactions continue to pour in, the actress’s comments have once again brought attention to the ongoing debate around tradition, personal belief, and modern health standards.

While Inyama has not issued any further clarification since the interview, her statements have undeniably reignited discussions on a topic that remains deeply complex and often polarising within Nigerian society and beyond.

Watch her speak below…