How Ghana and Nigeria police handle domestic violence cases

In Ghana national records reveal that one-third of women have been victims of domestic violence. In Nigeria, 33% of women aged 15-49 have experienced either physical or sexual violence in a domestic setting.

Both Ghana and Nigeria enacted laws on domestic violence in 2007. They essentially criminalised domestic violence and made police involvement mandatory. Special domestic violence units were set up in the two countries’ police institutions. The Domestic Violence and Victims Support Unit was created within the Ghana Police Service, while the Family Support Unit was established in the Nigeria Police Force.

These units are responsible for handling cases of domestic violence, prosecuting offenders and providing support services for victims.

Read full article by Abena Asefuaba Yalley

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