THE IMPACT OF TOXIC FEMINIST ARGUMENTS ON THE LEGAL RECOGNITION OF MARRIAGE IN NIGERIA: A STUDY OF ABUJA FAMILY LAW REFORMS

Background of the Study

Toxic feminism, as a radical form of feminist thought, often challenges traditional gender roles and advocates for extensive changes to marriage and family structures. While feminist movements have largely contributed to the advancement of women's rights, toxic feminism has sometimes led to the rejection of the very institution of marriage itself, or at least to a radical redefinition of its purpose and boundaries. These arguments have led to shifts in societal attitudes and, in some cases, legal reform efforts.

In Nigeria, family law reforms are typically influenced by both cultural values and feminist ideologies. Abuja, as the nation's capital and the center of legal and policy decision-making, plays a crucial role in shaping family law. This study aims to assess how toxic feminist arguments have influenced the legal recognition of marriage in Nigeria, particularly focusing on family law reforms in Abuja. It will explore how feminist ideologies have interacted with traditional marital norms to shape legal reforms affecting marriage recognition, such as changes to divorce laws, custody arrangements, and property rights.

 

Statement of the Problem

While feminist movements have contributed positively to gender equality, toxic feminism, with its extreme views on gender equality, often challenges traditional views on marriage. This study will investigate how toxic feminist ideologies have influenced family law reforms in Abuja, particularly those related to the legal recognition of marriage. The study will assess the extent to which these arguments have shaped the evolution of marriage law in Nigeria and their impact on societal perceptions of marriage.

 

Objectives of the Study

To assess the impact of toxic feminist arguments on the legal recognition of marriage in Nigeria.

To evaluate the influence of family law reforms in Abuja on marriage practices in Nigeria.

To explore the relationship between toxic feminist ideologies and changes in the legal recognition of marriage, including divorce laws, property rights, and child custody arrangements.

 

Research Questions

How have toxic feminist arguments influenced family law reforms related to marriage recognition in Abuja?

What impact have these reforms had on the legal recognition of marriage in Nigeria?

How do legal changes related to marriage reflect the influence of toxic feminist ideologies on family law?

 

Significance of the Study

This study is significant because it examines the legal impact of toxic feminist ideologies on marriage recognition in Nigeria, focusing on reforms made in Abuja. By analyzing how these ideologies influence family law, the research will offer insights into the broader societal effects of feminist thought on marriage practices and legal frameworks. The findings will be useful for policymakers, legal professionals, and gender activists seeking to understand the legal complexities surrounding marriage in Nigeria.

 

Scope and Limitation of the Study

This study will focus on the legal recognition of marriage in Nigeria, with particular emphasis on family law reforms in Abuja. The research will be limited to analyzing the influence of toxic feminist arguments on these reforms and will not explore broader social or cultural factors influencing marriage recognition. The study will not include legal cases outside of the Abuja context.

 

Operational Definition of Terms

Toxic feminism: A radical form of feminism that promotes extreme gender equality, often rejecting traditional marriage roles and advocating for the dismantling of patriarchal family structures.

Legal recognition of marriage: The formal acknowledgment by the state of a union between two individuals, including the legal rights and responsibilities that come with marriage.

Family law reforms: Legal changes or updates aimed at addressing issues related to marriage, divorce, child custody, and other family matters.

 

References

Olumide, A. O. (2021). Toxic feminism and family law reforms in Abuja. Nigerian Journal of Family Law and Policy, 22(1), 46-59. Retrieved from https://www.njflp.org/toxic-feminism-marriage-recognition

Eze, T. M. (2020). The impact of feminist ideologies on the evolution of marriage law in Nigeria. Journal of African Legal Studies, 19(3), 123-136. Retrieved from https://www.jals.org/toxic-feminism-family-law-reforms