5 Observations on Domestic Violence

The passing of popular gospel singer, Osinachi Nwachukwu, has caused uproar on social media and offline. Aside from dying in her prime, many people were devastated after hearing that the “Ekwueme” crooner was a victim of domestic violence.

Let’s take a look at some reasons people stay in abusive relationships and marriages, and solutions to this menace.

Financial insecurity

Some people stay in abusive relationships and marriages because of financial and emotional insecurity. An individual that is dependent on another for financial provisions will likely not leave his or her partner. In this situation, the solution is to be in charge of your life emotionally and financially. Do not allow your worth to be dictated by your partner.

Children

For some partners, it is the children in the marriage that keeps them there. These people do not want the children to feel the effect of their parents’ separation. Hence, they endure abuse. You have to stay alive and healthy to be there for your children. If it is your wish for a settlement, do it from afar.

Read Also: 5 Tips to Beat Mental Health Issues

The society

The society has made many people stay in abusive marriages over the years. “What will people say” is one statement that has halted dreams and reduced the voices of many people. The society does not need to dictate to you how you should live your life, especially when it is a life threatening situation. Be intentional about what you want. The society will be alright in the end.

Religion

Often, people who stay in abusive marriages quote the Bible passage which says that God hates divorce. The victims are also worried about how people of the same religion with them would rate them. The death of Osinachi has enlightened people on the need to separate first from an abusive partner, even if they would resolve the issues that led to the abuse.

Lack of personal will

According to the accounts of Osinachi’s twin sister and mother, the late singer was advised to leave her husband but she refused. She got the support of her family but lacked the will to leave. Having financial security and family support is not enough for some people. They need the mental capacity and zeal to leave. Until they have it, they will remain in abusive marriages.

Perpetrators of domestic violence should be made to face the law. No partner has the right to take the life of the other person. Marriage is a beautiful institution which should not be desecrated on the altar of domestic violence. Hence, treat your partner the way you would like to be treated.