Domestic Violence: A Silent Killer in Nigeria?

The chilling case of Lade and Desmond is unfortunately not an isolated incident. Domestic violence is a growing menace in Nigeria, tearing apart families and leaving lasting scars on individuals and communities. This article delves into the heart of this crisis, exploring its causes, effects, and what can be done to combat it.

  • A Disturbing Incident: The story of Lade and Desmond shows how quickly things can escalate in a domestic setting.
  • Rising Cases: The Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency reports a shocking number of SGBV cases.
  • Not Just Physical: Emotional, economic, and technological abuse are also forms of domestic violence.
  • Multiple Factors: Traditional beliefs, mental health, and socio-economic issues contribute to the problem.
  • Call for Action: Experts and activists are urging society to challenge norms and tackle domestic violence on multiple fronts.

A Sunday Afternoon Nightmare

Imagine a peaceful Sunday afternoon shattered by a frantic knock on your door. That was Beatrice’s reality when her neighbor, Lade, frantically sought help, confessing she had just stabbed her husband, Desmond. This wasn’t just a neighborhood squabble; it was a stark illustration of the brutal reality of domestic violence. Lade, covered in blood, revealed a harrowing tale of abuse that led to the unthinkable. Desmond ended up in intensive care, but countless others aren’t so lucky.

The Alarming Rise of Domestic Violence

Analysts are ringing alarm bells about the surge in domestic violence cases in Nigeria. This isn’t just about physical harm; it’s a societal plague that ruins marriages and devastates children, often pushing them onto the streets. According to the Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA), a staggering 73% of the 6,456 cases of Sexual and Gender Based Violence (SGBV) they received from September 2023 to July 2024 involved domestic violence against adults. That’s a disturbing figure that demands attention.

It’s Not Just Physical: The Many Faces of Abuse

Domestic violence is far more than just physical attacks. It’s an epidemic that, according to Professor Abosede Ewumi, affects people of all backgrounds and includes emotional, psychological, sexual, and economic abuse. A 2019 survey by the National Bureau of Statistics revealed that 30% of Nigerian women aged 15-49 have experienced physical violence, while a staggering 68% have faced emotional, economic, or sexual abuse. This is a pattern of behavior aimed at gaining and maintaining power over an intimate partner. It’s about control, intimidation, and terror.

Types of Domestic Violence

  • Physical Violence: Involves any type of physical harm or assault.
  • Emotional Violence: Includes verbal abuse, intimidation, and manipulation.
  • Economic Violence: Involves controlling finances, restricting access to money, and preventing someone from working.
  • Technological Violence: Includes using technology to monitor, stalk, or track someone without their consent.
  • Sexual Violence: Forcing someone into any unwanted sexual activity.

The Root Causes: A Complex Web

Why is domestic violence so prevalent? Experts like Mrs. Ewumi point to several factors:

Traditional Beliefs and Culture

Harmful traditional beliefs and cultural norms that promote gender inequality often lead to violence. Women are frequently expected to be subservient, leaving them vulnerable to abuse.

Mental Health

Psychological disorders like depression and anxiety can contribute to aggressive behavior. Unfortunately, many Nigerians lack access to mental health services.

Family Traits and Learned Behavior

Children who witness abuse are more likely to become perpetrators or victims themselves. This cycle of violence needs to be broken through education and awareness.

Socio-economic Issues

Unemployment, poverty, and economic hardship create a toxic environment where domestic violence can flourish. Economic empowerment programs are vital in mitigating this.

What Can Be Done? A Multi-Faceted Approach

The solution isn’t simple, but here are some crucial steps:

Strengthen Laws and Policies

It’s crucial to implement and enforce laws that protect victims and hold perpetrators accountable.

Community Involvement

Engage communities to shift cultural attitudes that promote gender inequality. Traditional and religious leaders can play a significant role in fostering respect and understanding.

Support for Victims

Provide accessible mental health services, counselling, and therapy for victims of domestic violence, as many suffer from PTSD as a result.

Address Economic Hardships

Implement economic empowerment programs, job creation initiatives, and social safety nets to help vulnerable populations.

Increase Awareness

The media has a crucial role to play in shedding light on domestic violence, sharing survivors’ experiences, and challenging social norms that perpetuate the problem. Create anger management centers to help people control their emotions.

Let’s Break the Cycle

Domestic violence is a serious issue that requires a concerted effort from all sectors of society. We need to challenge outdated beliefs, provide support to victims, and hold perpetrators accountable. Only then can we create a safer and more equitable society for all.

By addressing the root causes and implementing practical solutions, we can work towards saving lives, families, and our society.

About The Author

Ikenna Oluwole

Ikenna Okoro, affectionately known as "Ike," is a dynamic editor who focuses on sports and current events. He is known for his vibrant reporting and his passion for Nigerian sports culture.

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