The Plateau State Gender and Equal Opportunity Commission (PLASGEOC) has expressed concern over the growing practice of young women, including tertiary institution students, selling their egg cells (ova) for financial gain.
The commission disclosed that the practice has become widespread in parts of the state, warning that it poses serious health and welfare concerns for young women.
Speaking during a radio programme in Jos, the Head of Information Unit of the commission, Nene Dung, revealed that authorities had identified a fertility facility where women reportedly undergo egg donation procedures in exchange for money.
According to her, some young women receive between ₦120,000 and ₦150,000 after donating their egg cells, with many allegedly using the funds to support their lifestyles or purchase expensive items.
Dung described the trend as exploitative and a form of gender-based violence, stressing that the commission has launched awareness campaigns across communities and educational institutions to discourage the practice.
She said the commission has engaged the management of several tertiary institutions, including the University of Jos, Polytechnic Barkin Ladi, College of Education Gindiri, and the University of Education, Pankshin, to educate students on the potential dangers associated with the sale of egg cells.
The commission also called on parents and guardians to pay closer attention to the activities and movement of their children, noting that stronger family guidance is essential in addressing emerging forms of Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV).
PLASGEOC reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the rights and welfare of women and girls across Plateau State and warned that individuals found engaging in exploitative practices would face appropriate sanctions.
Source:dailytrust.com
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Health