“I Was Just Six When I Underwent Circumcision” – Biodun Stephen Opens Up

Award-winning Nigerian filmmaker Biodun Stephen has opened up about her personal experience with female circumcision, describing the incident as one of the most painful memories of her childhood.

According to Ireporter Online, the producer made the revelation during a recent appearance on the Diary Of A Naija Girl Podcast, where she reflected on how the practice was carried out as part of her family’s cultural tradition.

Stephen recounted that she was six years old when the procedure took place under the supervision of her grandmother. She explained that she was unaware of what was about to happen, as she was initially allowed to play and eat, creating a sense of comfort before being asked to take a shower. Shortly after, she was instructed to lie down for the procedure.

The filmmaker described the pain as intense and unforgettable, noting that the memory remains vivid many years later. She stated that at the time, there was no explanation given to her about what was happening. Upon returning home, she said her mother attempted to console her by applying balm and offering apologies, but no detailed conversation followed about the event.

Stephen further reflected that the practice had been passed down through generations in her family and was regarded as a cultural norm. However, she emphasised how children are often not informed about the purpose of the procedure, leaving them confused and traumatised by the experience.

Quoting her recollection, she said she vividly remembers being taken to a woman’s place, sitting on a mat outdoors, and the sharp pain that followed, describing it as a sensation that has remained etched in her memory ever since.