ABSTRACT
Domestic violence is not only an issue of concern in Nigeria, but also globally. Going down history lane, domestic violence has been, in many cultures, an accepted way of life. However, it has in recent years, been recognized as a criminal problem and laws have been enacted curb its practice. Despite this development, domestic violence is still culturally acceptable in many societies, including the Nigerian society. In Nigeria, and even other parts of the world, the major victims of domestic violence are women, nonetheless, men and children are also victims of the abuse. Globally domestic violence accounts for nearly one quarter of all recorded crimes and here in Nigeria, an average of 300-350 women are killed every year by their husband, former partners, boyfriends or even male relation. Domestic violence is often viewed in the society as a family matter and mere act of disagreement between a husband and wife or partners and shielded from outside interference. Not to mention that the victims of domestic violence not only go through the physical and emotional trauma, but they also develop a culture of silence, as a result of the stigma usually attached to the victims rather than the perpetrators of such crimes. Though considered a crime in Nigeria, with a number of laws meant to punish offenders, domestic violence is still prevalent in Nigeria and the victims of such crimes increasing by the day. This paper addresses the prevalence of domestic violence in Nigeria, victims of domestic violence, the existing legal framework on domestic violence in the country, the barriers hindering domestic violence victims from accessing legal and institutional and possible solutions.
