Know When to walk away : Christian Onumajuru’s advice on toxic marriages
NIGERIA – As the world marks the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence, a Nigerian man, Christian Onumajuru, has added his voice to the call for victims of domestic violence to prioritize their safety and leave abusive relationships.
This appeal comes on the heels of the alleged murder of 25-year-old Jessica Olua by her husband, who allegedly murdered her, a grim reminder of the devastating consequences of domestic violence.
In a post on Facebook, Onumajuru condemned the act and encouraged those in abusive relationships to take a walk, choosing peace over drama.
“Marriage is honourable and the bed undefiled. But where the purpose for which it was established is no longer there, it becomes a scam”, he wrote.
Onumajuru also warned parents and others who encourage victims of domestic violence to stay in abusive relationships.
“Whoever encourages you to stay put, hold on and keep hoping/praying for your abusive partner to change does not mean well for you.”
He emphasized that divorce is a viable option for those in abusive relationships. “If you continually remain in that abusive union as a result of what people would say, bear in mind that when you die, those same people will only feast at your burial.”
His message is clear: love should not be blind, and it’s better to be divorced and alive than to be dead and gone.This is a truly powerful message.
The 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence is an international campaign that aims to raise awareness about the devastating consequences of gender-based violence and to mobilize action to prevent it.
