Domestic abuse is any action intended to control or keep power over a spouse, partner, family member, or girlfriend/boyfriend. The abuse may take the form of something physical, or it may be emotional, verbal, sexual, or financial. You might feel threatened, controlled, or belittled.

One in three women and one in three men have experienced abuse or domestic violence. You might be afraid of reaching out for support. However, there are people who are equipped and willing to help you. Consider reaching out to any of the 4 hotlines in Nigeria who with abuse and domestic violence if you are experiencing these signs:

Your partner/family member is constantly trying to convince you you’re crazy and makes you doubt your experiences (also known as gaslighting)
Your partner/family member has told you they will commit suicide if you leave
You are being isolated from friends and family members
Being forced to have sex or perform other sexual activities that you don’t want to
Avoiding certain topics so that you don’t anger your partner/family member
You are being controlled by your partner/family member
Any form of physical harm (hitting, slapping, strangling, kicking, burning, cutting)
Your partner/family member is acting excessively jealously

After months or years of abusive behaviour from your partner or family member, you might doubting yourself and your sanity. However, this is your abuser talking. The abuse, and everything associated with it, is not your fault.

If you're experiencing abuse and domestic violence, feeling scared is perfectly natural. You could be doubtful and convinced that there’s no way out. Talking to someone in Nigeria who understands how abusive relationships work might help you feel less hopeless and powerless.

If you are ready to talk to someone about your experiences of abuse or domestic violence, you can contact a hotline in Nigeria for free and confidential support.

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Helplines in Nigeria for abuse & domestic violence.

Reach out to a hotline in Nigeria for support with abuse and domestic violence

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