Benue State University, Makurdi

Impact of Domestic Violence on Girl-Child Education and Equal Opportunities for Women in Nigeria

Philip Terzungwe VANDE

Abstract

Domestic violence continues to be a global epidemic that kills, tortures, and maims – physically, sexually, psychologically and economically. It is one of the most pervasive of human rights violations, denying women and girls’ equality, security, dignity, self-worth, and their right to enjoy fundamental freedoms and equal opportunities in society. This study investigated the phenomenon of domestic violence and girl-child education in Nigeria. It also examined how violence impacts on equal opportunities for women in society. Using the secondary method of data collection and analysis, the study further adopted the Social Learning Theory as a framework of analysis. It concluded that domestic violence is present in every country, cutting across boundaries of gender, race, culture, class, education, income, ethnicity and age. Even though most societies proscribe violence against women, the reality is that violations against women’s human rights are often sanctioned under the garb of cultural practices and norms, or through misinterpretation of religious tenets. Moreover, when the violation takes place within the home, as is very often the case, the abuse is effectively condoned by the tacit silence and the passivity displayed by the state and the law-enforcing machinery. The study recommended a re-orientation for all to ensure gender equality and equal opportunities for women. It also recommended, among others that there should strict enforcement of laws against gender-based violence in Nigeria.

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