Nigeria Rights Guide
How to Get a Domestic Violence Protection Order in Nigeria
The Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act 2015 allows you to get a protection order at any court in Nigeria. Emergency orders are available the same day.
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Nigerian Law
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Direct Answer
Under the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act 2015 (VAPP), you can apply for a protection order at any Magistrates' Court or High Court. An interim protection order can be granted the same day, even without notifying the abuser. The VAPP Act applies directly in the FCT and has been adopted by most states.
What the Law Says
Your Legal Foundation
Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act 2015
Section 30
“A complainant may apply to a court for a protection order. The court may grant an interim protection order without the respondent being present if there is evidence of imminent harm.”
Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act 2015
Section 1
“Physical, sexual, psychological, and economic violence in domestic relationships are criminal offences under this Act.”
Constitution of Nigeria 1999
Section 34
“Every individual is entitled to respect for the dignity of his person, and accordingly, no person shall be subjected to torture or inhuman or degrading treatment.”
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Has my state adopted the VAPP Act?
The VAPP Act automatically applies in the Federal Capital Territory (Abuja). As of 2026, over 20 states have adopted it. States with their own domestic violence laws (e.g., Lagos, Ogun) offer similar protection orders. Contact WARDC or FIDA to confirm your state.
What types of abuse are covered?
The VAPP Act is broad: physical violence, sexual violence, emotional abuse, economic deprivation, stalking, harmful traditional practices (forced marriage, female genital mutilation), and any coercive or controlling behaviour.
Can men apply for protection orders?
Yes. The VAPP Act protects all persons, regardless of gender. Men experiencing domestic violence can apply for protection orders on the same basis as women.
What if police refuse to help?
Report police inaction to the Police Service Commission (PSC) at psc.gov.ng or call WARDC at 0800 CALL WARDC. You can also go directly to the Magistrates' Court without police involvement.
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