A COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF TOXIC FEMINIST DISCOURSES ACROSS NIGERIAN REGIONS: A CASE OF CONTRASTING NARRATIVES IN ABUJA AND PORT HARCOURT

Background of the Study

Toxic feminism, as a radical offshoot of feminist thought, has gained traction in various parts of the world, including Nigeria. Characterized by extreme views on gender relations, toxic feminism challenges traditional family structures, marriage, and gender roles. While feminist ideologies have played an important role in advocating for gender equality, toxic feminism goes beyond that by rejecting conventional family values, promoting women’s autonomy, and often normalizing single motherhood as a form of empowerment.

In Nigeria, the narratives surrounding toxic feminism vary significantly across regions. Abuja, as the capital city, has a diverse and cosmopolitan population that is more likely to be exposed to global feminist discourses. In contrast, Port Harcourt, a major urban center in the southern part of Nigeria, is influenced by a mix of traditional values and modern feminist ideas. This study will compare how toxic feminist discourses manifest in Abuja and Port Harcourt, exploring the differing social, cultural, and political influences in shaping these narratives and their impact on perceptions of marriage, family, and single motherhood.

 

Statement of the Problem

The regional variations in the adoption and influence of toxic feminist ideologies in Nigeria have not been adequately explored. This study will assess how toxic feminist discourses differ between Abuja and Port Harcourt and how these varying narratives affect perceptions of marriage, family roles, and gender equality. The findings will offer a more nuanced understanding of how regional factors contribute to the propagation of toxic feminist ideas.

 

Objectives of the Study

To compare the manifestations of toxic feminist discourses in Abuja and Port Harcourt.

To assess how regional socio-cultural and political factors influence the adoption of toxic feminist ideologies in these two cities.

To explore the impact of contrasting toxic feminist narratives on perceptions of marriage, gender roles, and single motherhood.

 

Research Questions

How do toxic feminist discourses manifest in Abuja and Port Harcourt, and what are the key differences between them?

What regional factors contribute to the development of toxic feminist narratives in Abuja and Port Harcourt?

How do these differing feminist ideologies affect local perceptions of marriage, gender roles, and single motherhood?

 

Significance of the Study

This study is significant as it offers a comparative analysis of toxic feminist discourses in two important Nigerian cities—Abuja and Port Harcourt. By exploring the regional variations, the research will provide valuable insights into how cultural, political, and social contexts shape the reception and influence of feminist ideologies. The findings will be relevant for gender activists, policymakers, and social researchers interested in understanding the impact of feminist thought on Nigerian society.

 

Scope and Limitation of the Study

The study will focus on Abuja and Port Harcourt, examining how toxic feminist discourses are presented and perceived in these urban centers. The research will be limited to analyzing the influence of toxic feminism within these two cities and will not extend to rural areas or other Nigerian regions. The study will focus on socio-cultural factors but will not delve into the political or economic dimensions of feminism.

 

Operational Definition of Terms

Toxic feminism: A form of feminism that rejects traditional gender roles, advocating for radical changes in family structures, marriage, and gender relations.

Marriage and gender roles: The societal expectations that define the roles and responsibilities of men and women in marriage and family life.

Single motherhood: The condition of a mother raising her child independently, without the involvement or support of a partner.

 

References

Olamide, T. O. (2021). Toxic feminism in Nigerian urban centers: A comparative study of Abuja and Port Harcourt. Journal of African Gender Studies, 19(2), 78-92. Retrieved from https://www.jags.org/toxic-feminism-abuja-portharcourt

Nwachukwu, R. E. (2020). Regional variations in feminist discourses in Nigeria: Case study of Abuja and Port Harcourt. Nigerian Journal of Social Issues, 22(1), 34-47. Retrieved from https://www.njsi.org/regional-variations-feminist-discourses