Correlates of Secret Multiple Partnership within Stable Relationships, Sex Differentials and HIV Risk amongst Tiv People of North Central Nigeria

Background: Despite the consensus in both the developing and developed countries that concurrent multiple sexual relationship is unsafe sexual behaviours; gaps exist in knowledge with regard to the dynamics of secret multiple partnership within stable relationships that account for over 40% new HIV infection in Nigeria. This study examines the correlates of secret multiple partnership within stable relationships, sex differentials and HIV risk amongst Tiv people, Nigeria.

Methods: A sample of 1,621 (864 women; 757 men; 815 HIV seropositive; 806 HIV seronegative) respondents who participated in survey and in-depth interviews were selected from 2 clinics and 2 other locations using multi-stage and purposive sampling methods. SPSS (version 21) was used for quantitative data analysis.

Results: Approximately 38% men and women who are married have reported being aware of their partners’ secret sexual relationships. Fifty three percent women and 46.2% men who are aware of their partner’s secret relationships are HIV positive. The correlates vary, but the common factor associated with both men and women whose partners are engaged in secret relationships is partners’ absence from home for a longer period. Married men are more likely to engage in secret multiple partnerships than their female counterpart.

Conclusion: Information on correlates of secret multiple partnerships and HIV risk in stable relationships could be of considerable benefits for developing strategies for HIV prevention through secret multiple sexual relationships that are shrouded in unsafe sexual practices, especially in Nigeria and Africa at large where secret multiple partnerships are common but condom use is low.