Financial Control and Women’s Socio-economic Development in Lafia Metropolis of Nasarawa state, Nigeria

Abstract

This study examined the impacts of financial control on women’s socio-economic development in Lafia Local Government Area (LGA) of Nasarawa State, with specific focus on income control, denial of access to resources, and financial exploitation. A total of 130 questionnaires were administered across selected markets and residential areas in Lafia metropolis. Data were analyzed using frequency and percentage distributions. Findings revealed that income control was the most prevalent form of abuse, as 44.6% of respondents reported spending restrictions, 38.5% were denied access to their own money, and 33.8% experienced frequent financial monitoring. Denial of resources also emerged as a significant barrier, with 42.3% unable to meet personal needs, 36.9% prevented from doing business, and 38.5% experiencing worsening economic conditions. Financial exploitation further compounded women’s challenges, as 30.8% were forced to take loans or give money, 33.8% were deceived financially by partners, and 32.3% were made responsible for debts they did not incur. These practices not only reduced women’s capacity to save and invest but also entrenched dependency and cycles of poverty. The study concludes that financial control in Lafia LGA is widespread and reinforced by cultural norms, structural inequalities, and weak institutional support, thereby undermining women’s empowerment and socio-economic independence. It recommends stronger legal frameworks, expansion of financial literacy and empowerment programmes, and the establishment of community-based support systems to provide legal, financial, and psychosocial assistance to victims, thereby promoting sustainable development and gender equality.