Domestic Violence as a Conflict Issue in Kwara State: Awareness, Incidence, and Resolution

This study investigates domestic violence as a form of private conflict in Kwara State, North Central Nigeria, examining patterns of awareness, incidence, and the resolution mechanisms available to affected persons. Domestic violence remains an underreported and under-addressed conflict issue in Nigerian society, shaped by cultural norms, inadequate legal enforcement, and limited access to support services. Using a descriptive survey design, structured questionnaires were administered to 180 respondents drawn from urban and semi-urban households in Ilorin West, Offa, and Patigi local government areas, supplemented by interviews with women rights advocates, NAPTIP officers, and family court magistrates. The theoretical framework draws from the feminist theory of power and control and the ecological model of intimate partner violence. Findings reveal that a majority of respondents were aware of legal provisions against domestic violence under the Violence Against Persons Prohibition Act, but knowledge of available reporting channels and support services was significantly lower among rural and low-income respondents. Customary norms discouraging separation and the limited availability of shelters for survivors impede help-seeking behaviour. Recommendations include strengthening VAPP implementation in Kwara State, establishing domestic violence response centres in each local government area, training community leaders and religious figures in domestic violence identification and referral protocols, and funding sustained public awareness campaigns. Keywords: domestic violence, conflict, Kwara State, VAPP, gender-based violence.