Group links rampant cases of divorce to domestic violence, drug abuse

An Adamawa state-based group known as the Peace and Unity Association (PUA) has attributed the rampant instances of divorce to domestic violence, drug and alcohol abuse, and infidelity.

Mrs. Naomi Philip, the chairperson of the group, made this known during an interview with newsmen in Yola on Monday.

She said the surge in divorce is worrisome, disturbing, andsaddening, stressing that records of broken homes are on the daily increase.

She added that neglecting family members by refusing to provide the basic necessities of life to them like food, clothing, and medical care were other causes of broken marriages.

Mrs. Philip advised married couples to always seek elders' intervention with a view to resolving their differences so as to prevent divorce, saying children suffer most in such situations.

She advocated for the empowerment of married women by their husbands, government agencies, and relevant organizations, adding that "poverty and idleness also contribute to unwarranted divorce among couples."

"I also advise all intending couples to always study and observe themselves very well before venturing into marriage to determine their compatibility or otherwise."

According to her, marriage is a lifelong affair, and women are instrumental to the development of humanity, hence the need for them to be supported.

"I call on governments at both the national and state levels to appoint more women to leadership positions, stressing that such an initiative would give more voice to the women folk," she said.

She called on all stakeholders in the state to continue to champion the fight against gender-based violence (GBV) for the betterment of society.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that recently, the government domesticated the Violence Against Persons Prohibition Act (VAPP).