Introduction: Breaking the Silence
Domestic violence remains a pervasive and deeply troubling reality in Nigeria. It
thrives in silence, fueled by fear, stigma, cultural pressures, and misinformation.
Contrary to outdated beliefs, domestic violence is not a private family matter. It is
a crime and a direct violation of fundamental human rights.
Every year, countless individuals, primarily women and children, but also men suffer
abuse within their homes, often without knowing that the law provides powerful
mechanisms for protection and justice.
This article aims to break that silence. It provides a practical guide to:
1.Understanding what constitutes domestic violence under Nigerian law.
2.Accessing Protection Orders, the law’s immediate safety mechanism.
3.Pursuing criminal justice and civil remedies against abusers.
You are not alone, and you are not powerless. The law is firmly on your side.
Part 1:
Understanding Domestic Abuse – It’s More Than Physical Violence
Contrary to popular belief, domestic violence is not limited to physical assault. The
Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act (VAPP Act) 2015, particularly
section 46, adopts a broad definition that captures multiple forms of abuse.
Forms of Abuse Recognized Under Nigerian Law
The VAPP Act recognizes the following categories:
1. Physical Abuse
Includes hitting, slapping, kicking, choking, pushing, use of weapons, or any form of
physical assault.
(Sections 46 & 19, VAPP Act)
2. Sexual Abuse
Covers rape, forced sexual acts, marital rape, denial of reproductive rights, or any
non-consensual sexual activity.
(Sections 46 & 5)
3. Psychological and Emotional Abuse
This includes:
∙humiliation
∙persistent insults
∙threats of harm
∙intimidation
∙isolation from family or friends
∙monitoring phone calls or movements
(Sections 46 & 14)
4. Economic Abuse
Examples include:
∙restricting access to money
∙withholding personal earnings
∙preventing a partner from working
∙refusing to provide basic household needs
(Sections 46 & 12)
5. Verbal Abuse
Persistent use of foul or degrading language intended to instil fear or submission.
6. Harmful Traditional Practices
Such as Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), harmful widowhood practices, forced
marriage, and other discriminatory cultural acts.
(Sections 46 & 20)
A Relatable Scenario
“He doesn’t hit me, but he calls me useless every day, checks my phone, and forbids
me from visiting my sister. He says he’s just being protective.”
This is psychological, emotional, and controlling behavior—all forms of
domestic violence under the VAPP Act.
Part 2:
Your Immediate Legal Shield — Protection Orders
A Protection Order, defined in Section 46 and governed by Sections 28–37 of the
VAPP Act, is a powerful legal tool issued by a court to protect victims of domestic
violence. It compels the abuser to stop the violence and maintain a safe distance.
What a Protection Order Can Do
The court may order the abuser to:
∙Stop all acts of domestic violence.
∙Vacate the shared home—even if they own it.
∙Stay away from the victim’s home, workplace, school, or family members.
∙Cease all communication (phone, email, social media, or through third
parties).
∙Grant temporary custody of children to the victim and regulate visitation.
∙Prevent the abuser from damaging or selling property.
Protection Orders are enforceable by law enforcement, and violating one is a
criminal offence.
How to Obtain a Protection Order: Step-by-Step
Step 1: Ensure Your Immediate Safety
If in danger, call the police or seek refuge at a safe location.
Step 2: Gather Evidence
Evidence strengthens your application. Examples include:
∙photographs of injuries or damaged property
∙medical reports
∙police reports
∙threatening messages (texts, WhatsApp, emails)
∙witness statements
∙diary entries with dates and descriptions
Step 3: Consult a Lawyer
A lawyer will file the necessary applications.
If you cannot afford legal representation, contact:
∙The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC)
∙The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA)
∙NGOs such as FIDA, WRAPA, DSVRT, or Mirabel Centre
Step 4: File an Application in Court
An ex parte application (without notifying the abuser initially) may be filed for
urgent protection.
Which court?
∙States that have domesticated the VAPP Act: High Court or Magistrate
Court
∙Other states: relief can be sought under the Criminal Code, Penal Code, or in
Family Courts
Step 5: Court Hearing and Final Order
A Temporary Protection Order may be issued immediately.
During the subsequent hearing—where the abuser can respond—the court may
grant a Final Protection Order, which can last months or years.
Part 3:
Seeking Justice — Criminal and Civil Remedies
A Protection Order is only one remedy. Victims can also pursue criminal
prosecution and civil claims.
1. Criminal Prosecution Under the VAPP Act
The VAPP Act criminalizes:
∙physical injury
∙emotional/verbal abuse
∙economic abuse
∙forced isolation
∙harmful cultural practices
Punishments range from fines to lengthy imprisonment.
Importantly, the Act criminalizes spousal battery, discarding the archaic belief that
a husband may “discipline” his wife.
2. Criminal Prosecution Under State Laws
Southern States — Criminal Code
Covers offences such as:
∙assault
∙bodily harm
∙attempted murder
∙conduct likely to breach the peace
Northern States — Penal Code
Covers:
∙hurt
∙grievous hurt
∙criminal force
∙intimidation
3. Civil Action: Claiming Damages
Victims may sue the abuser for compensation, including:
∙medical expenses
∙pain and suffering
∙emotional trauma
∙loss of earnings
∙psychological counselling costs
Civil and criminal actions may run concurrently.
Part 4:
Breaking Barriers — You Are Not Alone
Victims often face cultural, religious, or family pressure to remain silent. But your
safety and dignity are paramount, and the law supports your right to protection.
Notable Nigerian Domestic Violence Cases
These cases highlight the seriousness of domestic violence and the readiness of
Nigerian courts to punish offenders.
1. Olamide Omoseyin (2013)
Brutally killed by her partner. Her case underscored the need for early intervention
and national awareness.
2. Ronke Shonde (2016)
Found dead after years of documented abuse. Her diary became crucial evidence. Her
death sparked national outrage.
3. Osinachi Nwachukwu (2022)
The acclaimed gospel singer suffered years of abuse. Her husband was charged and
convicted under the VAPP Act—a landmark moment in Nigerian domestic violence
jurisprudence.
4. Bilyaminu Bello (2017)
Maryam Sanda was convicted for killing her husband. This case demonstrates that
domestic violence affects all genders and is prosecuted irrespective of gender.
Where to Get Help: National Support Resources
Emergency Contacts
∙Police Emergency Number: 112
∙Police Gender Desk: Available at most divisions
Human Rights Bodies
∙NHRC Toll-Free: 0800 444 9888
Sexual & Domestic Violence Referral Centres
Lagos:
∙DSVRT: 08000 333 333
∙Mirabel Centre: 0800 62 72 255
∙WARIF: 0809 210 0006
Abuja:
∙NAPTIP Hotline: 0800 2255 3878
∙Abuja SARC: 0800 700 7000
Other states include WACOL (Enugu), MSF (Rivers), BRCI (Cross River), among
many others.
Legal Aid Providers
∙FIDA Nigeria
∙Nigerian Bar Association (Legal Aid)
Mental Health Support
∙MANI: 0809 111 6264
∙She Writes Woman: 0800 800 2000
Conclusion: Your Life, Your Safety, Your Rights
Domestic violence violates the constitutional rights to dignity, life, and freedom from
torture. The law is not only a shield—it is a weapon for justice.
Remember:
∙Identify the abuse.
∙Document everything.
∙Seek help immediately.
∙Apply for a Protection Order.
∙Pursue criminal and civil remedies.
Breaking the cycle of abuse begins with a single step.
Let this knowledge be that step toward safety, justice, and a life of dignity.
