EXAMINING THE INCIDENCES OF DOMESTIC ABUSE OF BOYS AND MEN IN NIGERIA: A LEGAL PERSPECTIVE

ABSTRACT

This work examines the neglect of incidences of domestic abuse of boys and men in Nigeria. The issue of domestic violence alone is a major concern in Nigeria and the focus seems to be solely on girls or women. Globally, it’s estimated that males go through the same type of domestic abuse that females face and the percentages, when compared, are almost equal. However, although this is still a global issue, it is more recognised in developed countries that males do go through abuse and refugee camps are being made, along with reliable solutions and laws that would assist them. Yet, in Nigeria the incidences of abuse on these males are greatly unreported and this leads majority to believe that abuse on males simply don’t exist. This work exposes these incidences and examines the laws. The research finds that the Nigerian law provides some measure of protection against abuses in its varying forms for the males, this however does not obliterate the need to broaden the scope of the protection currently afforded males under the law. It could be sustained that Nigeria does not have any specific law protecting males against domestic violence in all 36 states, rather has the VAPP Act which is only in force in Abuja. It is therefore recommended that effective legislations to curb domestic violence against men must be put in place and enforced and concludes by noting that the ignorance of the protection afforded males under the Nigerian Law is not unconnected to the fact that our laws recognise that only females can be abused.