If spouses truly understood the value of humanity, domestic violence might be rare.
It is heartbreaking to see couples who once professed love turn violent against each other.
The statistics on domestic violence in 2025 are alarming, so it is essential to explore the root causes and potential solutions.
What is Humanity?
Humanity is about treating others with kindness, empathy, and respect. It involves recognizing the inherent worth and dignity of every individual, regardless of their background, culture, or circumstances. When we practice humanity, we create a safe and supportive environment for everyone.
The Connection Between Humanity and Domestic Violence.
When spouses lack empathy and understanding, they may:
Disregard boundaries: ignore their partner’s needs, feelings, and limits.
Use violence as a solution: resort to physical or emotional abuse to resolve conflict.
Fail to communicate effectively: neglect to listen, understand, and validate each other’s perspectives.
The Consequences of Domestic Violence.
Domestic violence can lead to:
Physical harm: injuries, health problems, and even death.
Emotional trauma: anxiety, depression, and PTSD.
Social consequences: isolation, loss of relationships, and limited opportunities.
The Statistics 😌
The numbers are staggering:
Domestic violence in Nigeria
1 in 3 women experience physical or sexual violence at the hands of their intimate partners
11,873 people accessed GBV support services in January 2025 alone
17 reported incidents of femicide resulting in 19 deaths in 2025
Breaking the Cycle
To prevent domestic violence, we need to:
Promote humanity: encourage empathy, kindness, and respect in relationships.
Foster healthy communication: teach active listening, conflict resolution, and emotional intelligence.
Support survivors: believe and support those who have experienced domestic violence.
The Role of Education .
Education can play a vital role in preventing domestic violence by:
Teaching empathy: helping individuals understand and respect each other’s perspectives.
Promoting healthy relationships: educating people about mutual respect, trust, and communication.
Encouraging non-violent conflict resolution: teaching alternative methods to resolve disputes.
Community Involvement.
We can all contribute to preventing domestic violence by:
Raising awareness: educating ourselves and others about the signs of domestic violence.
Supporting local organizations: donating to or volunteering with organizations that provide support services for survivors.
Creating a culture of respect: promoting empathy, kindness, and understanding in our communities.
Conclusion.
Domestic violence is a complex issue, but by promoting humanity, empathy, and understanding, we can create a safer and more supportive environment for everyone.
Let us work together to break the cycle of violence and build a brighter future for all.
By doing so, we can reduce the statistics on domestic violence and create a world where love, respect, and kindness prevail.
By Ijeoma Adeniyi