EVALUATION OF DOMESTIC VIOLENCE LAWS AND THEIR ENFORCEMENT IN KUJE AREA COUNCIL, FCT ABUJA

Abstract

This study evaluated domestic violence laws and their enforcement in Kuje Area Council of the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja. Domestic violence remains a persistent social and public health challenge in Nigeria despite the existence of legal frameworks such as the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act 2015. The study examined the nature and prevalence of domestic violence, assessed the effectiveness of domestic violence laws, and determined the relationship between law enforcement and the reduction of domestic violence cases in Kuje Area Council. A descriptive survey research design was adopted, and data were obtained through structured questionnaires administered to respondents within the study area. The findings revealed that domestic violence is highly prevalent in Kuje Area Council, with physical violence being the most common form, followed by emotional, economic, and sexual abuse. The study also found that while domestic violence laws exist, their effectiveness is limited by weak enforcement, low public awareness, inadequate institutional capacity, and socio-cultural acceptance of domestic abuse. Hypothesis testing further revealed that there is no significant relationship between the enforcement of domestic violence laws and the reduction of domestic violence cases in the area. The study concluded that legal frameworks alone are insufficient without effective implementation, institutional strengthening, and public sensitization. It recommended improved law enforcement training, public awareness campaigns, economic empowerment of victims, and strengthened institutional support systems.