Patriarchy, Culture and the Social Development Of Women in Nigeria

Abstract

The exclusive rule and control by men in most African countries including Nigeria have been a common practice over the years, this has been perpetuated through several socio-cultural practices which range from child marriages and female restrictions to widowhood rites, female genital mutilation, denial of inheritance rights and others. Using the historical analysis method of writing, the study would rely on oral and written sources of literature. The paper shall examine how these practices under the patriarchal system have frustrated and impeded the social development of women in Nigeria over the years. It is recommended that these socio-cultural practices that are repugnant to natural justice, equity, and good conscience within our societies should be abolished to enable women to enjoy equal rights as their male counterparts without any cultural bias or hindrance.