AAUA Law Don Says Gender-Based Violence Extends Beyond Physical Abuse

Glow FM

Official Update

Apr 22, 2026 Updated Jul 14, 2026 2 min read 14 views 0 shares

Sub-Dean of the Faculty of Law, Adekunle Ajasin University, Olamide Mohammed, has said gender-based violence is a harmful behaviour directed at individuals because of their gender, noting that it mostly affects women through physical, sexual, psychological and emotional abuse in society.

Speaking on Glow FM’s Glow Focus programme, Mohammed said gender-based violence goes beyond physical harm, adding that it also includes spiritual and economic abuse. She explained that the issue is broader than many people assume and often appears in subtle forms that are ignored or normalised in homes and communities.

She further explained that victim complicity in gender-based violence can be influenced by the home environment, especially where cultural beliefs discourage victims from speaking out, seeking help or challenging abusive behaviour.

Her comments reflect broader global findings on gender-based violence. The World Health Organization says violence against women is driven by gender inequality and harmful gender norms, while UN Women describes gender-based violence as being rooted in gender inequality, abuse of power and harmful norms.

WHO also notes that violence against women and girls takes multiple forms, including physical, sexual and psychological abuse, and can lead to serious physical, mental and reproductive health consequences. The agency says the problem remains widespread globally, with nearly 1 in 3 women experiencing physical and or sexual violence in their lifetime.

The discussion on the programme adds to continuing calls for stronger awareness, prevention, survivor support and cultural change, as experts maintain that gender-based violence cannot be effectively addressed without confronting the unequal power relations and harmful social expectations that sustain it.