IBEH, CHIAGOZIE VIVIAN (2026) LEGAL RESPONSE TO DOMESTIC VIOLENCE IN MARRIAGES IN NIGERIA. Other thesis, Godfrey Okoye University, Enugu.
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Abstract
Domestic violence in marriage remains a serious socio-legal problem in Nigeria because it occurs within a relationship that the law, religion, culture and society regard as private. Hence, legal intervention is difficult, even where abuse threatens the victim’s life, dignity, liberty and security. Nigeria has enacted several laws to address violence within intimate and domestic settings. However, victims still face challenges when attempting to report abuse or obtain protection. In light of the above, this project examined the legal response to domestic violence in marriages in Nigeria, with attention to the adequacy of existing laws, institutions, remedies and mechanisms for enforcement. This research adopted a doctrinal methodology. This study found that Nigeria has an extensive legal framework for addressing domestic violence. The VAPP Act criminalises spousal battery, emotional abuse, economic abuse, intimidation, forced isolation and other forms of violence. In addition, it provides protection orders and compensation. The Matrimonial Causes Act also allows abused spouses to seek divorce, judicial separation, custody, maintenance and other matrimonial reliefs. However, it was also found that these remedies are weakened by poor enforcement, under-reporting, police trivialisation, evidential difficulties, court delays, social stigma, economic dependence, inadequate shelters, weak legal aid and there is no coordination between institutions. This research concluded that domestic violence in marriage is not a family dispute. Rather, it is a violation of human rights which requires state intervention. It recommended that protection orders should be enforced stronger; the law on domestic violence in Nigeria should be harmonised; specialised courts should be established; the police should become more accountable; More shelters should be created for survivor; legal aid should be expanded; the public should be sensitised about domestic violence; and there should be coordination among enforcement agencies in Nigeria.
| Item Type: | Thesis (Other) |
|---|---|
| Subjects: | K Law > K Law (General) |
| Divisions: | Faculty of Law, Arts and Social Sciences > School of Law |
| Depositing User: | COMFORT AJALA |
| Date Deposited: | 27 Jul 2026 09:28 |
| Last Modified: | 27 Jul 2026 10:16 |
| URI: | http://eprints.gouni.edu.ng/id/eprint/6022 |
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