INTERSECTION OF WOMEN, RELIGIOUS ABUSE AND VIOLENCE IN NIGERIA
This study investigates the intersection of religion, abuse, and violence against women in Nigeria, arguing that patriarchal interpretations of religious doctrines perpetuate systemic gender-based violence. Religiously justified abuse—encompassing physical, sexual, psychological, and emotional harm—remains prevalent despite global advancements in women’s rights, as misinterpretations of sacred texts reinforce male dominance and suppress women’s autonomy. Previous research identifies religious abuse as a global phenomenon but inadequately explores its unique manifestations in Nigeria’s multi-religious context, where Christianity, Islam, and indigenous traditions intersect with cultural norms to silence victims and protect perpetrators. This gap necessitates a focused analysis of Nigerian women’s experiences. The study’s scope encompasses historical contexts, typologies of abuse, socio-economic impacts, and resistance strategies, justified by Nigeria’s high rates of gender violence and the urgent need for context-specific solutions. Employing qualitative methods—including textual analysis of religious doctrines, semi-structured interviews with survivors, and case studies—the research utilizes feminist theory to deconstruct power hierarchies and advocate for gender-just reinterpretations of faith traditions. Findings reveal that religious institutions often weaponize theology to justify domestic violence, sexual exploitation, and psychological coercion, yet emerging feminist movements within these traditions offer pathways for empowerment. The study concludes that collaborative efforts among religious leaders, policymakers, and civil society are vital to dismantle patriarchal structures. Recommendations include theological education reforms, legal enforcement, and survivor-centered support systems, contributing to broader gender justice efforts in religiously diverse societies.
Keywords: abuse, intersection, nigeria, religious, violence, women