Assessment Of Gender-Based Violence In The City Of Ibadan, Oyo State, Southwest Nigeria

Introduction Gender-based violence (GBV) is a significant public health issue globally, with the World Health Organization (WHO) describing it as any behavior within an intimate relationship that includes physical aggression, sexual coercion, psychological abuse, and controlling behaviors. The Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) describes GBV as any harmful act committed against a person’s will based on gender differences. GBV is recognized as a contemporary human rights concern affecting millions globally, with women and girls making up most victims. However, men and boys are also affected, though their victimization is less acknowledged, particularly due to societal perceptions of masculinity. The consequences of GBV, whether physical or psychological, are severe and can include exposure to HIV, sexually transmitted infections, unwanted pregnancies, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and depression. WHO statistics indicate that 35% of women globally have experienced intimate partner violence or non-partner sexual violence, revealing the widespread nature of the issue. Purpose: This study aimed to assess the prevalence and trends of gender-based violence in Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria. Oyo State is the fifth most populous state in Nigeria, with a GBV prevalence rate of 7.6%. By 2021, 17.1% of women in Oyo State had experienced physical violence since the age of 15. The study also seeks to explore GBV among men, adolescents, and pregnant women, as well as the help-seeking behaviors of victims and the response of healthcare providers in Ibadan. Method: A quantitative, descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted, using semi-structured questionnaires hosted on Kobocollect. The research covered the 11 Local Government Areas (LGAs) of Ibadan. Data analysis was performed using SPSS Version 29, with inferential statistics used to test associations between categorical variables. Logistic regression was also employed to identify independent factors of GBV, with a statistical significance level set at p < 0.05. Results: The study included 13,841 participants, comprising 2,388 pregnant women, 2,027 non-pregnant women, 4,452 adolescents, 3,688 adult men, and 1,286 healthcare providers. Among adult women, younger age groups (20-29 years) were less likely to experience GBV compared to older women. Women who were employed or had higher educational attainment were less likely to be at risk. Pregnant women aged 30-39 had a higher likelihood of experiencing GBV, while women aged 50 and above had a lower risk. Among men, younger males were more likely to experience GBV threats, with 7.1% reporting physical violence from their partners. Adolescents, particularly those aged 10-14 years, were at a higher risk of GBV compared to older adolescents. Employment status was also a significant factor, with unemployed adolescents reporting higher rates of GBV. Additionally, 22% of health facilities reported GBV cases in the past six months, with primary health centers being the most common point of care. However, there were gaps in knowledge among healthcare workers, with most failing to identify the different forms of GBV. Conclusion: Age, employment status, education level, and partner’s behavior (such as alcohol consumption) were significant factors influencing GBV risks in Ibadan. The findings suggest gaps in the knowledge of healthcare providers and limited long-term support for survivors of GBV. While most facilities reported cases among women, there were fewer reports of GBV among men, highlighting the need for more attention to this issue