Dr. Ama Onyerinma Speaks On 3 Things That Emboldens Domestic Violence In Nigeria

#Nigeria

For Dr. Ama Onyerinma, Founder / Executive Director of Live Abundantly, an organization that speaks against domestic violence, abuse can continue until women overcome some barriers. She explained that ignorance of fundamental rights, culture and religion are three reasons why women do not speak or leave abusive relationships.

 

In a chat with Josephine Agbonkhese of Vanguard, Dr. Ama Onyerinma speaks on how these factors contribute to the rate of domestic violence in Nigeria.



She said,
Many women do not know their rights. When you know and understand your rights, you are empowered. I am not using the word empowerment lightly here. I mean having the knowledge of what the law stands for regarding your rights.
In a situation where the law is being violated and children are involved, you need to make the right decision for yourself and the children. You are entitled to basic human privileges that need to be treated with respect. These include right to security, safety, not to be abused and demeaned. And if the laws are violated, the woman has to understand how to tackle it. But first, she must be aware of her human rights, knowing the full spectrum.
Women need to know they matter in a society. They should not be treated like second-class citizens. People should erase the notion that women are just there to bear children. Women can do more than domestic issues. Women can be part of a community and contribute to nation-building only when they are empowered and given the opportunity to contribute.
I am against violence of any sort, be it physical or otherwise. I am not comfortable with violence. It is a pity that domestic violence, right now, is prevalent in Lagos State and Nigeria at large. With the various cases and reports of violence and the frequent abuse women face, if they do not take steps in managing the situation, it may cost them their lives.
Cultural belief has hindered women acting against spousal abuse. Women are forced to respect tradition at their own risk. Religion and cultural beliefs would continue to hinder women from allowing the law to take its full course. Women fear stigmatisation.
Religion and culture have often encouraged domestic violence. In Nigeria, domestic violence affects women more although violence can equally affect a man. Women easily give in when pressure sets in from family or relatives of the perpetrator.
In a situation where there is constant spousal abuse and the victim keeps enduring, it may result in fatality. Speak up whenever you are in a violent relationship as a woman.If you notice abused, seek counsel. Most women normally do not want to speak up. They hesitate because of their religious beliefs.


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