In this article we will talk about domestic violence, Laws against Domestic violence in the home, Challenges to be encountered and what one needs to do.
Definition
This can be seen as violent or aggressive behavior within the home, typically involving the violent abuse of a spouse or partner. As Domestic violence remains a serious issue in Nigeria, affecting men, women, and children across different communities. Over the years, several laws have been put in place to protect victims and punish offenders.
Here’s a breakdown of the major laws that tackle domestic violence in Nigeria:
- Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act, 2015 (VAPP Act)
The VAPP Act is Nigeria’s most comprehensive law against domestic violence. It criminalizes physical, sexual, emotional, psychological, and even economic abuse. Under this law:
- Victims can apply for a protection order to keep abusers away.
- Offenders face fines, imprisonment, or both.
- Harmful practices like female genital mutilation and harmful widowhood rites are outlawed.
This act has provided legal remedies for the victims and is applicable in the FCT And also has been adopted by 13 states like Lagos, Ekiti, Anambra etc. to vary degrees.
- Lagos State Protection Against Domestic Violence Law, 2007
- Prohibits domestic violence in Lagos State and gives courts the power to grant interim protective orders.
- Covers physical, sexual, psychological, economic abuse, and denial of basic necessities.
- Child Rights Act, 2003
Since children are often victims of violence in the home, the Child Rights Act makes it illegal for parents, guardians, or relatives to subject children to abuse, neglect, or harmful cultural practices.
- Criminal and Penal Codes
Before the VAPP Act, the Criminal Code (South) and Penal Code (North) provided punishment for acts like:
- Assault and battery
- Causing grievous harm
- Attempted murder
These provisions are still used today to prosecute violent acts in the home.
Challenges and What You Should know
- Inconsistent Application:
The fragmented nature of laws means that the effectiveness of protection against domestic violence varies significantly by state.
- Varying State Adoption:
While the VAPP Act is a comprehensive federal law, its application depends on whether individual states choose to adopt and enforce it.
- Societal Perceptions:
Patriarchal societal structures contribute to the justification of domestic violence, with some views seeing it as a right of husbands.
- Legal Burdens:
The criminal justice system often places high evidentiary burdens on victims, and remedies can be limited.
HELP YOU MAY NEED
- Leave the environment: If you or your children are in danger, try to leave safely.
- Seek support: Reach out to a trusted friend, relative, or neighbor.
- Contact support organizations: Organizations like the Safe Haven Foundation offer urgent guidance.
- Report to authorities: You can report incidents to the police or, in Lagos, to the Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA).
- Gather Evidence: Take photos of injuries and collect evidence like text messages, recordings, and witness details
CONCLUSION:
Domestic violence is not just a “family affair” it’s a crime. These Acts empower victims to seek justice and protection while holding abusers accountable. They also help break the cycle of silence by recognizing that abuse at home has serious legal consequences.