EST. 2026

The Archive

Law · REF. TA-21478

Sexual and Gender-Based Violence and the Law: An Examination of Access to Justice in Nigeria

Abstract

This study investigates the subject matter outlined in the title above through a structured research design appropriate to its academic level. Using primary and/or secondary data collection methods, the research examines the underlying variables, tests relevant hypotheses, and presents findings with implications for practice and policy. This is placeholder abstract text generated for catalogue preview purposes; the full document contains a complete, topic-specific abstract, literature review, methodology, data analysis, and conclusion.

Chapter One — 1.1 Background to the Study

The Nigerian legal system has, over time, sought to address sexual and gender-based violence through instruments such as the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act, yet questions remain about how effectively the law achieves its intended purpose in practice.

While the legal framework addressing sexual and gender-based violence has evolved considerably, access to justice remains an area where scholarly and judicial opinion is divided, warranting closer legal analysis.

1.2 Statement of the Problem

Notwithstanding the provisions of the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act, sexual and gender-based violence persists in Nigeria, raising concerns about access to justice and whether the current legal regime is adequate to the task. This study interrogates that gap between legislative intent and practical outcome.

1.3 Objectives of the Study

  1. To examine the legal framework governing sexual and gender-based violence in Nigeria, particularly under the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act.
  2. To assess access to justice as it relates to sexual and gender-based violence.
  3. To identify the gaps between the law's provisions and its practical enforcement.
  4. To recommend legal and institutional reforms to strengthen the response to sexual and gender-based violence.

1.4 Research Questions

  1. What does the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act provide in respect of sexual and gender-based violence?
  2. What challenges arise in respect of access to justice in relation to sexual and gender-based violence?
  3. What gaps exist between the law's provisions and its practical enforcement?
  4. What reforms could strengthen Nigeria's legal response to sexual and gender-based violence?

1.5 Significance of the Study

This study is significant to legal practitioners, policymakers, and law enforcement agencies grappling with sexual and gender-based violence, offering a focused analysis of the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act and its practical adequacy. It also contributes to the growing body of scholarship in law on Nigeria's response to this issue.

1.6 Scope of the Study

The study is limited to a doctrinal and case-law analysis of sexual and gender-based violence with particular focus on access to justice, reflecting a clearly defined scope; it does not extend to a full empirical survey of enforcement outcomes nationwide.

Chapters Two through Five, references and appendices are available for a one-time fee of ₦75,000.

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