The person credited with significantly stopping the killing of twins in Nigeria was Mary Slessor.
Mary Slessor: A Scottish Missionary's Impact in Nigeria
Mary Slessor, a courageous Scottish missionary, dedicated her life to challenging and ultimately helping to eradicate the deeply rooted practice of killing twin babies in certain Nigerian communities during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. This tragic custom was prevalent among a group of people who held a traditional belief that twin births were an evil omen, and the babies were thought to harbor malevolent spirits.
Combating a Harmful Tradition
Slessor arrived in Calabar, in what is now Cross River State, Nigeria, and was profoundly disturbed by the infanticide of twins. She embarked on a lifelong mission to protect these vulnerable children, often at great personal risk. Her humanitarian efforts were groundbreaking and multifaceted:
- Rescue and Care: She personally rescued numerous abandoned or endangered twin babies from the bush, bringing them into her home, caring for them, and ensuring their survival.
- Education and Advocacy: Slessor tirelessly worked to educate the local populace, particularly women and tribal chiefs, about the natural causes of twin births, dispelling the superstitious beliefs that fueled the practice.
- Influencing Local Laws: Through her strong relationships and influence with local rulers and elders, she persuaded communities to abandon the practice and to enact rules for the protection of twins.
- Establishing Safe Havens: She played a pivotal role in creating missions and homes where rescued twins and other vulnerable children could be safely nurtured and raised.
- Judicial Involvement: Mary Slessor became an honorary magistrate in many local courts, using her authority to enforce justice and prevent harmful traditional practices, including the killing of twins.
Legacy of Change
Mary Slessor's unwavering commitment led to a profound shift in societal attitudes and practices in the regions where she worked. Her actions not only saved countless lives but also laid the groundwork for broader social reforms, including championing women's rights and promoting education. Her efforts are a testament to the power of compassion and perseverance in overcoming entrenched harmful customs.
Key Aspects of Mary Slessor's Contribution
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Identity | Scottish Presbyterian missionary |
| Region | Calabar, Nigeria (among the Efik people) |
| Core Issue | Infanticide of twin babies, stemming from belief in evil spirits |
| Primary Goal | To end the killing of twins and provide them care |
| Methods Used | Rescue, education, advocacy, legal influence, community engagement |
| Lasting Impact | Significant reduction in twin infanticide in her areas of influence |
