Perspectives of Feminism and Gender Relations in Ika Land, Delta State, Nigeria: Evidence from a Convergent Mixed-Methods Study

Abstract

This study examined perceptions of feminism and gender relations in Ika Land, Delta State, Nigeria, using a convergent parallel mixed-methods design. Quantitative data were collected through a structured questionnaire administered to 400 adult respondents selected using multistage sampling from Ika North East and Ika South Local Government Areas, while qualitative data were obtained from 16 purposively selected key informants, including traditional rulers, women leaders, religious leaders, and community development officers. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics and chi-square analysis, whereas qualitative interviews were analysed using thematic analysis. The findings revealed statistically significant associations between feminist awareness and perceptions of gender equality, patriarchal cultural practices and women's access to opportunities, and gender-based challenges and perceptions of social development (p < 0.05). Four major qualitative themes emerged: cultural construction of gender roles, contested perceptions of feminism, underreporting of gender-based violence, and the empowering role of education. Integration of both datasets demonstrated that while patriarchal cultural practices remain influential, increasing educational opportunities and community advocacy are associated with more positive perceptions of gender equality. The study contributes to African feminist scholarship by providing context-specific evidence on gender relations within Ika Land and recommends culturally responsive interventions that promote gender equality while respecting indigenous community values.