The International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) has intensified
advocacy for end to domestic violence in Nigeria, particularly,
violence against women and children.
The Federation emphasized the need for Nigerians to begin to become
more conscious about the prevalence of domestic violence, especially,
against women in the country.it was indicated that 1000 incident of
domestic violence were reported between January and February 2019 in
Abuja alone, showing a rise in the abuse of rights of victims.
The Chairman of the International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA),
Abuja Branch, accordingly, led a peace walk to sensitise Abuja
residents on the prevalence of domestic violence. FIDA enlightened
citizens on the appropriate responses expected of victims of domestic
violence, the authorities to approach and how they go about their
experiences in seeking justice.
Some stakeholders were said to have expressed skepticism that
awareness raised has not been sufficiently effective to discourage the
scourge of domestic violence in the country.
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However, there are indications that the advocacy has succeeded in
encouraging people to end the culture of silence, thus, more men and
women are now willing to open up once they encounter domestic
violence.
FIDA in the peace walk in Abuja demanded the government to increase
efforts in assisting men who are now increasingly becoming victims of
domestic and sexual violence. While some men have been killed in the
process, others have suffered physical injuries and other forms of
psychological damages.
FIDA remarked that domestic violence is not limited to physical
assault but can also involve emotional and financial abuse.