FROM LAW TO LIFE: EFFECTIVENESS OF THE LEGAL AND INSTITUTIONAL FRAMEWORK FOR COMBATING DOMESTIC VIOLENCE IN NIGERIA

Abstract

Domestic violence has become a recurrent phenomenon in the African clime, such that various Nations have established legal and institutional mechanisms for combating this great and odious menace. This Article aims to bridge the gap between Nigeria’s formal legal frameworks and everyday cultural practices to effectively combat domestic violence in Nigeria. Despite robust legal protections, domestic violence remains pervasive due to cultural norms and practices that undermine these laws Prevalent consciousness that sees the female gender as inferior to the male gender which is further exacerbated by certain cultural and religious teachings that has contributed to the myopic or stereotypes to which the female gender are perpetually subjected to which invariably leads to certain forms of violence perpetrated against the female gender has proven problematic in the effort to sustainably combat domestic violence. The Article employing the doctrinal research methodology, evaluates the laws and institutions set up to combat domestic violence; implementation challenges and gaps in enforcement, highlighting systemic barriers that hinder effective protection and therefore recommends that for the law to be effective certain sthings must be addressed like examining the strengths and weaknesses of existing frameworks, identifying areas of improvement and propose strategies to enhance better protection of the victim. Combating domestic violence in Nigeria requires a multifaceted approach that combines legal reforms, awareness campaigns, support services, community involvement, data-driven policies, and efforts to change mindsets and cultural attitudes. The ultimate goal is to create an environment where domestic violence is not tolerated, survivors are supported, and perpetrators are held accountable.