Domestic Violence and Legal Protection of Women in Nigeria

Domestic violence against women is an important and largely unaddressed human rights issue worldwide, and Nigeria has a high burden of problems related to cultural, institutional and legal issues. The study utilized a mixed methods approach, involving quantitative data analysis of the NDHS 2024, qualitative interviews with survivors, law enforcement, and social workers, and doctrinal analysis of legal and policy texts. The study focused on the prevalence of domestic violence, an assessment of existing laws, the gaps identified in the implementation of the laws and suggesting ways to strengthen protection for women in Nigeria. Findings revealed that domestic violence cuts across all demographic groups. 19% of women (aged 15-49) had been physically violent since age 15, 19% of partnered women were emotionally violent and 5% were sexually violent against a partner since age 15. Financial control and dependency were also common forms of economic violence. In 2024 the National Human Rights Commission reported 84,187 cases of domestic violence, but many victims did not report their case to formal services for fear, stigma and the lack of support systems. While the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act 2015 offers legal protection, implementation is unevenly spread and discriminatory provisions like Section 55(1)(d) of the Northern Penal Code remain to be addressed to protect women's rights. The study revealed that lack of shelters, few specialized support services, lack of public awareness and culture of violence are significant problems. It recommends that there is need to build up the institutional capacity, universal domestication of the VAPP Act, public enlightenment and enhancement of mechanisms in supporting victims of domestic violence.

domestic violence, legal protection, VAPP Act

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