The Kwara State office of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) recorded 122 domestic violence complaints between January and October 2026, according to official figures released by the agency.

The NHRC State Coordinator in Kwara, Mrs Olajumoke Olaoye, disclosed the figures during an interview with newsmen on Monday in Ilorin, the state capital.

Olaoye noted a gradual shift in public awareness regarding marital rights, highlighting an increased willingness among victims including men to report domestic abuse to relevant authorities.

She explained that while women constituted the majority of complainants, reports filed with the commission spanned physical assault, emotional distress, sexual violence, and economic deprivation. She added that societal expectations and stigma often deter male victims from reporting spousal abuse.

Addressing sexual gender-based violence, Olaoye emphasized that spousal rape remains a criminal act under state law, asserting that marriage or bride price settlement does not negate the requirement for mutual consent.

She expressed concern over the persistent practice among some families of covering up sexual abuse and rape cases rather than seeking legal redress for victims.

The coordinator cited entrenched cultural practices and misinterpretations of religious teachings as key factors perpetuating domestic abuse against women, noting that the commission is actively engaging traditional and religious leaders to reshape public attitudes.

Olaoye further disclosed that the commission received several cases involving severe physical abuse of children, cautioning parents and guardians against hiding under the guise of discipline to violate children's rights.

On legal frameworks, she highlighted Chapter Four of the 1999 Constitution and the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Law 2020 (VAPP Law) as primary statutory tools protecting victims in the state. She added that the Kwara State Ministry of Justice has increasingly referenced the VAPP Law to prosecute criminal cases, particularly rape and sexual assault.

For complex cases exceeding administrative resolution at the state level, Olaoye explained that matters are referred to the NHRC headquarters council, whose formal decisions carry the enforcement weight of a High Court judgment. Additionally, the commission provides pro bono legal support for indigent victims through its legal unit.

She affirmed that the NHRC works collaboratively with the International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA), the Nigeria Police Force, the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), and the Kwara State Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development.

Urging victims not to suffer in silence, Olaoye stated that complaints can be submitted in person, via telephone calls, WhatsApp, or email, with provisions for third-party and anonymous reporting to protect victims from intimidation.