EXAMINING THE LAWS REGULATING DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AND SAFEGUARDS FOR THE LIVES OF VICTIMS IN NIGERIA

ABSTRACT

This research examines the laws regulating domestic violence and safeguards for the lives of victims in Nigeria. It examines the laws that can be used in cases of domestic violence in impacting and safeguarding the lives of victims in Nigeria. This research adopted the doctrinal method of legal research. This research finds that the implementation of international laws in which Nigeria is signatory to, for example, CEDAW, an international convention of which its sole purpose is to protect human rights of victims in Nigeria. Nigeria falling to domesticate this international instrument shows weakness in its legal framework for the protection of victims from domestic violence. The research recommends that the society in general should be educated on domestic violence; this would have its own role to play in order to put a stop to this very act. Also, they should be encouraged to bring actions in court or better still; a special court should be set aside to handle cases of domestic violence, and urges member states to ensure the successful implementation and maintenance of these laws. This research concludes that the domestic violence laws play a crucial role in the protection of victims of domestic violence alongside their rights around the world, through various bodies and mechanisms and advocates for the implementation of the domestic violence laws among members of a state.