DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AND ITS PREVENTION: A SURVEY OF ACCESS TO JUSTICE AMONG WOMEN IN AKURE, ONDO STATE

This research examined Domestic Violence and Its Prevention: A Survey of Access to Justice Among Women in Akure, Ondo State. The study focused on assessing the prevalence and forms of domestic violence, evaluating the effectiveness of legal and institutional frameworks, identifying barriers hindering women’s access to justice, and recommending strategies for improved prevention and justice delivery mechanisms. A quantitative research design was adopted, and a structured questionnaire was administered to 113 respondents comprising women who had experienced domestic violence, staff members of non-governmental organizations (NGOs), within family support and gender units. The data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistical tools. Findings revealed that domestic violence is highly prevalent in Akure, with women reporting frequent cases of physical, sexual, emotional, and economic abuse. The study also found that although legal frameworks such as the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act exist, enforcement remains weak due to inadequate awareness, poor institutional capacity, and socio-cultural barriers. Major obstacles to justice identified include stigma, economic dependency, lack of awareness of legal rights, and discouragement from law enforcement agents. The study concludes that domestic violence remains a pressing social and public health problem in Akure. It recommends increased public awareness campaigns, training of law enforcement officers on gender sensitivity, establishment of more shelters and legal aid centers, and stricter enforcement of laws against perpetrators. These measures, if effectively implemented, would enhance women’s access to justice and contribute to the reduction of domestic violence in Akure and beyond