"Retaliate If Slapped" - Emir Sanusi Tells Daughters

Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II, the monarch of Kano, has sparked a heated debate with his recent comments on gender-based violence. Speaking at the National Dialogue Conference on Gender-Based Violence in Kano, Sanusi emphasized the need to protect women from domestic abuse, stating that he advises his daughters to retaliate if their husbands slap them.

Sanusi's comments were made in response to the alarming prevalence of domestic violence in Kano. According to his research, 45% of cases in Kano's nine Shari'a courts over a five-year period involved domestic violence, predominantly wife-beating. This staggering statistic highlights the urgent need for action to address this issue.

The Emir's stance on gender-based violence is clear: he condemns it in the strongest possible terms. Sanusi argued that beating one's wife is prohibited in Islam and is a crime that must be punished. He emphasized that the concept of "light beating" is often misinterpreted and used as a justification for domestic violence.

Sanusi's comments on retaliation are not a call to violence, but rather a call to action. He wants his daughters, and all women, to know that they have the right to defend themselves and to stand up against abuse. This message is particularly important in a society where women are often socialized to accept domestic violence as a normal part of marriage.

The Emir's words have sparked a lively debate, with some praising his courage and others criticizing his approach. However, one thing is clear: Sanusi's comments have brought attention to the critical issue of gender-based violence in Nigeria.

Gender-based violence is a pervasive problem in Nigeria, affecting millions of women and girls. According to the National Demographic and Health Survey (NDHS) 2018, 31% of married women in Nigeria have experienced physical violence from their husbands.

The NDHS also reported that 44% of married women believe that a husband is justified in beating his wife under certain circumstances, such as burning food or refusing to have sex. These statistics highlight the deep-seated cultural and social norms that perpetuate gender-based violence in Nigeria.

Religion and culture play a significant role in shaping attitudes towards gender-based violence in Nigeria. Some interpretations of Islamic law have been used to justify domestic violence, while cultural norms around masculinity and femininity can perpetuate abusive behaviors.

However, as Emir Sanusi's comments demonstrate, there are also many religious and cultural leaders who are working to challenge these norms and promote a culture of respect and equality.

Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II's comments on gender-based violence have sparked an important conversation about the need to protect women from domestic abuse. While his approach may be controversial, his message is clear: women have the right to defend themselves and to stand up against abuse.

As Nigeria continues to grapple with the issue of gender-based violence, it is essential that we listen to the voices of survivors and advocates, and that we work together to create a culture of respect, equality, and justice for all.