Male spousal abuse in Nigeria is a deeply misunderstood and underreported issue that affects many men across the country. Traditionally, the conversation around domestic violence has focused primarily on women as victims, often neglecting the experiences of men who suffer abuse in their homes. However, male spousal abuse is a significant issue that remains shrouded in stigma and silence, perpetuated by cultural norms, gender expectations, and a lack of institutional support. The horrors of this form of abuse are no less severe than those experienced by women, involving physical violence, emotional manipulation, economic control, and social isolation.
The prevalence of male spousal abuse in Nigeria is difficult to ascertain due to a combination of social stigma, underreporting, and limited research. Men who experience domestic abuse are often reluctant to come forward due to fear of ridicule, shame, and disbelief from their communities. In a society where traditional gender roles dominate, men are expected to be strong, stoic, and in control. Admitting to being a victim of spousal abuse can be perceived as a sign of weakness, leading to further victimization and marginalization. Despite these barriers, emerging data suggests that male spousal abuse is more common than previously believed. Research studies, although few, and anecdotal evidence indicate that many Nigerian men suffer silently, enduring various forms of abuse at the hands of their spouses.
The methods of abuse that male victims endure can be as varied and brutal as those faced by female victims. Physical abuse is one of the most direct and visible forms of spousal abuse against men. This can include slapping, hitting, punching, kicking, and the use of objects or weapons to inflict pain and injury. In some cases, men have reported severe injuries resulting from these attacks, including broken bones, bruises, cuts, and internal injuries. The physical abuse of men by their spouses is often minimized or dismissed due to societal beliefs that men are inherently stronger and should be able to defend themselves. This misconception overlooks the reality that physical violence can cause significant harm, regardless of gender, and that men, too, can be overpowered, especially when attacked unexpectedly or in vulnerable situations.
Beyond physical violence, male spousal abuse frequently involves psychological and emotional manipulation. Emotional abuse can be subtle and insidious, taking the form of constant criticism, verbal insults, threats, humiliation, and intimidation. Perpetrators may manipulate their partners by playing on insecurities, belittling their masculinity, or exploiting fears of societal judgment. This type of abuse can erode a man’s self-esteem and mental health over time, leading to anxiety, depression, and a sense of helplessness. Psychological abuse may also involve coercive control, where the abuser uses tactics such as surveillance, isolation from friends and family, and control over daily activities to dominate their partner. These behaviors are designed to instill fear, dependence, and a sense of powerlessness in the victim.
Economic abuse is another method used by some spouses to control their male partners. In such cases, the abuser may restrict access to financial resources, refuse to contribute to household expenses, or demand complete control over the family’s finances. This form of abuse is particularly effective in a society where economic stability is often equated with personal power and self-worth. By controlling financial resources, the abusive partner can create a situation where the victim feels trapped, unable to leave the relationship due to fear of economic ruin or inability to support themselves and their dependents.
Social abuse, a less commonly recognized form of spousal abuse, involves tactics that isolate the victim from their support networks. An abuser may deliberately undermine a man’s relationships with friends, family, and colleagues, spreading rumors, fostering mistrust, or outright forbidding contact with others. This isolation can make it difficult for the victim to seek help or escape the abusive situation. The social stigma surrounding male victims of domestic violence further compounds this isolation, as men may feel ashamed or embarrassed to admit their plight, fearing that they will not be believed or that their masculinity will be questioned.
The societal response to male spousal abuse in Nigeria is often characterized by disbelief, ridicule, and a lack of adequate support systems. There are few shelters, hotlines, or counseling services specifically designed for male victims of domestic violence, and many existing services cater primarily to women. Men who seek help from law enforcement or social services may encounter skepticism or even dismissal, as domestic violence is often perceived solely as an issue affecting women. This lack of institutional support leaves many men feeling trapped in their abusive situations, with nowhere to turn for assistance or refuge.
To address male spousal abuse in Nigeria effectively, there needs to be a significant shift in societal attitudes and perceptions. It is crucial to recognize that domestic violence is not gender-specific and that men, like women, can be victims of abuse. Awareness campaigns aimed at educating the public about the realities of male spousal abuse are essential to challenging stereotypes and breaking down the stigma that prevents men from seeking help. Additionally, there should be an expansion of support services to include resources specifically tailored to male victims, such as counseling, legal aid, and safe shelters. Training for law enforcement, healthcare professionals, and social workers on recognizing and responding to male domestic violence cases is also vital to ensuring that victims receive the support they need.
Furthermore, encouraging open discussions about domestic violence in all its forms, regardless of the victim’s gender, can help to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for all survivors. Men should be encouraged to speak out about their experiences without fear of judgment or ridicule, and their stories should be taken seriously and treated with the same urgency and compassion as those of female victims.
In conclusion, male spousal abuse in Nigeria is a hidden but pervasive issue that demands urgent attention. The horrors faced by male victims, from physical violence to psychological manipulation and economic control, are compounded by societal stigma and a lack of support. By recognizing the prevalence and methodology of this abuse, society can begin to dismantle the stereotypes and biases that have kept male victims silent and ensure that all survivors of domestic violence, regardless of gender, have access to the support and resources they need to heal and rebuild their lives.
Oblong Media Unlimited’s the “Side View” is launching a podcast to address these critical issues. Tackling societal menaces like paternity fraud, male spousal abuse, and other social injustices through a podcast can help raise awareness, challenge stigmas, and provide valuable insights and support to those affected. This platform could serve as a valuable resource for education, advocacy, and community building, creating meaningful conversations and promoting positive change in society.
Hon Chima Nnadi-Oforgu
Duruebube Uzii na Abosi
OBLONG MEDIA UNLIMITED 
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