Regional Variations and Determinants of Physical Intimate Partner Violence in Nigeria

  • Juliana C. Onuh University of Nigeria, Nsukka
  • Chukwuedozie K. Ajaero University of the Witwatersrand
  • Emeka E. Igboeli University of Nigeria, Nsukka
  • Godslove S. Nnadi University of Nigeria, Nsukka
Keywords: Determinants, Intimate partner violence, Nigeria, Prevalence, Regions

Abstract

Background: In spite of the need to prevent and mitigate varying occurrences of physical intimate partner violence (IPV) in different regions of the country, regional determinants of physical IPV in Nigeria have remain unexplored. The study, therefore, examines the regional variations of the prevalence and determinants of physical intimate partner violence in Nigeria. Method: Data was from the 2013 Demographic and Health Survey of Nigeria, which was conducted in all 36 states of Nigeria, and Abuja. A composite index of physical intimate partner violence was used as the outcome variable. Data analysis involved descriptive statistics, mapping, and binary logistic regression.Results: On National level, 16.25% of respondents had experienced physical IPV while regional variations in physical IPV was found across the regions with South-South having the highest prevalence (27.10%). The most significant determinants of physical intimate partner violence at the national level, and across the regions were shown to be: high level of alcohol intake by some husbands, increase in the number of co-wives, increased parity, wealth index, and low levels of women education.Conclusion: This study recommends sensitization of the public on the negative consequences of excessive alcohol intake, and practice of polygamy, on physical IPV. 

Author Biographies

Juliana C. Onuh, University of Nigeria, Nsukka
Department of Geography, Faculty of Social Sciences15
Chukwuedozie K. Ajaero, University of the Witwatersrand
Demography and Population Studies Programme, School of Public Health and Social Sciences
Emeka E. Igboeli, University of Nigeria, Nsukka
Departemnt of Geography, Faculty of Social Sciences
Godslove S. Nnadi, University of Nigeria, Nsukka
Departemnt of Geography, Faculty of Social Sciences
Published
2018-09-26