Domestic violence is a pervasive issue that affects individuals, families, and societies globally, including Nigeria. Understanding its consequences and the critical information surrounding it is essential for combating this menace. This article explores the devastating impacts of domestic violence and outlines key facts everyone should know.
What is Domestic Violence?
Domestic violence refers to abusive behaviours in a relationship used to gain or maintain power and control over an intimate partner. It encompasses physical, emotional, psychological, sexual, and financial abuse, as well as coercive control and intimidation.

Forms of Dom Violence
Physical Abuse: Involves hitting, slapping, choking, or any action that causes bodily harm.
Emotional and Psychological Abuse: Includes verbal insults, threats, manipulation, and isolation.
Sexual Abuse: Forced sexual activities, exploitation, or assault.
Economic Abuse: Controlling a partner’s financial resources or restricting access to funds.
The Far-Reaching Consequences of Domestic Violence
1. Physical Health Impacts
Victims often suffer from visible injuries such as bruises and fractures. In severe cases, chronic conditions like migraines, gastrointestinal disorders, and even permanent disabilities can result.
2. mental and Emotional Damage
Depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and suicidal tendencies are common among survivors. The persistent fear and trauma can leave long-lasting psychological scars.
3. Impact on Children
Children exposed to domestic violence may develop behavioural issues, emotional instability, and difficulty in forming healthy relationships. Witnessing violence can normalise abusive behaviours for children, perpetuating a cycle of violence.
4. Economic Consequences
Victims often lose jobs or experience reduced productivity due to physical injuries and emotional distress. Economic dependence on an abuser further entraps many victims.
5. Social Isolation
Abusers often isolate victims from friends and family, cutting off crucial support networks. This isolation exacerbates the victim’s vulnerability and hinders escape.
Why Violence Often Goes Unreported in Nigeria
1. Fear of Retaliation
Victims may fear further violence or threats to their lives if they report abuse.
2. Cultural Norms
In many parts of Nigeria, cultural and societal norms perpetuate the belief that domestic violence is a private matter, discouraging victims from seeking help.
3. Economic Dependence
Financial reliance on the abuser can make leaving seem impossible.
4. Lack of Awareness
Many victims do not recognise emotional or psychological abuse as domestic violence.

Domestic Violence Statistics in Nigeria
Prevalence: According to the National Demographic and Health Survey (NDHS) 2018, 31% of Nigerian women aged 15-49 have experienced physical violence, while 9% have suffered sexual violence.
Underreporting: The Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Response Team reported over 4,000 cases of domestic violence in 2022, but many cases remain unreported due to stigma.
Regional Disparities: Domestic violence rates are higher in urban areas like Lagos and Abuja compared to rural regions, though cultural silence in rural areas may mask the true extent.
Signs to Look Out For
Identifying domestic violence can save lives. Look for:
Unexplained injuries or frequent absences from work or social events.
Sudden withdrawal from friends and family.
Anxiety, depression, or drastic changes in behaviour.
Financial control or lack of access to personal funds.

How to Help a Victim
Listen Without Judgement: Create a safe space for the victim to speak.
Provide Resources: Offer information about shelters, hotlines, and support groups.
Encourage Professional Help: Suggest counselling or legal assistance.
Respect Their Choices: Understand that leaving an abusive relationship is complex and may take time.
Preventing Violence
Education and Awareness: Teach communities about healthy relationships and the unacceptability of abuse.
Strengthening Support Systems: Ensure access to shelters, counselling, and financial aid for survivors.
Legal Protections: Enforce laws that hold perpetrators accountable. For instance, the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act (VAPP), enacted in 2015, criminalises domestic violence in Nigeria.
Encouraging Bystander Intervention: Empower individuals to step in safely when witnessing abuse.

Resources for Help in Nigeria
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, consider these resources:
Mirabel Centre: Lagos-based sexual assault referral centre.
Women’s Rights Advancement and Protection Alternative (WRAPA): Supports survivors of domestic violence.
Domestic Violence Hotlines: Call 112 (Lagos State Emergency Line).
Ministry of Women Affairs: Offers support and interventions for victims.

Conclusion
Domestic violence is a serious issue with devastating consequences for individuals and society. By recognising its signs, supporting victims, and promoting awareness, we can work together to eliminate domestic violence and foster healthier communities. Remember, help is always available, and no one deserves to suffer in silence.
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