Authored By: Adeyemi Adedoyin Oluwafeyikemi
University of Lagos
ABSTRACT
This article examines the role of forensic science in criminal investigation and the administration of justice in Nigeria. It discusses the legal framework governing forensic evidence, the importance of scientific methods in criminal trials, and the challenges affecting the effective application of forensic science within the Nigerian criminal justice system. The article further analyzes issues such as inadequate forensic facilities, shortage of trained experts, corruption, and poor governmental support. It concludes by recommending institutional reforms, technological advancement, specialized training, and increased governmental investment as necessary measures for strengthening forensic investigations and improving criminal justice administration in Nigeria.
- INTRODUCTION
Crime investigation has evolved significantly with the advancement of science and technology. In modern criminal justice systems, forensic science plays a vital role in identifying offenders, establishing innocence, and ensuring justice. In Nigeria, however, the use of forensic science remains underdeveloped despite the increasing rate of crimes such as terrorism, kidnapping, cybercrime, and homicide.
The Nigerian criminal justice system still relies heavily on confessional statements rather than scientific evidence, thereby creating challenges relating to wrongful convictions, delayed justice, and ineffective investigations. Although the Evidence Act 2011 recognizes the admissibility of expert and scientific evidence, practical implementation remains inadequate. In R v Onitiri [1946] 12 WACA 58, the court emphasized the importance of credible evidence in criminal trials. This article examines the role of forensic science in criminal investigations in Nigeria, the evidential challenges associated with its use, and the future prospects for its development.
- CONCEPTUAL CLARIFICATION
2.1 Meaning of Forensic Science
The word “forensic” is derived from the Latin word “forensis,” meaning “of or before the forum.” Consequently, scholars such as Gòngora (2018) describe forensic science as the partnership between “science and justice,” where scientific findings are transformed into legal proof through the process of public courtroom debate.
Forensic science is the application of scientific methods and techniques in the investigation and detection of crimes. It involves the use of scientific knowledge in analyzing physical evidence for the purpose of establishing facts before a court of law. Justice C.O. Idahosa, in his analysis of the judicial system, highlights forensic science as an “investigative tool” rather than merely a scientific discipline.
2.2 Meaning of Criminal Investigation
Criminal investigation refers to the systematic process of gathering facts, evidence, and information for the purpose of identifying offenders and establishing whether a crime has been committed. Crime investigators interview witnesses, examine CCTV footage, track suspects, and reconstruct events in order to identify and prosecute offenders.
2.3 Meaning of Forensic Evidence
Forensic evidence refers to evidence obtained and analyzed through scientific methods for the purpose of proving or disproving facts in legal proceedings. Such evidence may include fingerprints, DNA samples, bloodstains, toxicology reports, and electronic data.
Section 68 of the Evidence Act 2011 specifically recognizes the relevance of expert evidence. Forensic experts such as pathologists, ballistic experts, fingerprint analysts, and digital forensic specialists may therefore be called upon to provide evidence during criminal proceedings. This means that where a court is faced with issues beyond ordinary human understanding, the opinion of a person specially skilled in that field becomes relevant.
- LEGAL FRAMEWORK IN NIGERIA
The legal framework governing forensic investigations in Nigeria is not contained in a single “Forensic Act.” Instead, it is derived from several legislations that regulate how evidence is collected, verified, and presented before the court.
The Evidence Act 2011 is the most significant legislation regarding forensic evidence. Section 68 of the Act recognizes the admissibility of expert evidence in matters requiring special skill or scientific knowledge. This provision forms the legal foundation for the use of forensic experts and scientific evidence in Nigerian courts.
In addition, the Administration of Criminal Justice Act 2015 was enacted to improve the efficiency of the criminal justice system. The Act regulates criminal procedure and promotes fairness and accuracy during investigations and criminal trials.
Furthermore, the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act 2015 provides legal support for digital investigations and the prosecution of cyber-related offences in Nigeria.
- ROLES OF FORENSIC SCIENCE IN CRIMINAL INVESTIGATION
Forensic science plays a significant role in modern criminal investigations by providing scientific and objective evidence capable of establishing facts in criminal proceedings. Unlike confessional statements, which may sometimes be obtained through coercion, forensic evidence is generally more reliable and accurate.
One important aspect of forensic science is DNA analysis, which assists in identifying perpetrators of offences such as rape, murder, and other violent crimes. DNA evidence can accurately link a suspect to biological materials such as blood, hair, or saliva recovered from a crime scene. Similarly, fingerprint examination assists law enforcement agencies in confirming the identity of suspects through unique fingerprint patterns.
Furthermore, digital forensics has become increasingly important in combating cybercrime, financial fraud, identity theft, and terrorism financing. Investigators now rely on electronic records, mobile devices, and emails to trace criminal activities and obtain evidence.
Lastly, forensic science minimizes the risk of wrongful convictions by ensuring that criminal liability is established through credible scientific evidence rather than assumptions or forced confessions.
- CHALLENGES FACING FORENSIC SCIENCE IN NIGERIA
Despite the growing importance of forensic science in criminal investigations, Nigeria continues to face numerous challenges affecting its effective implementation. One of the major problems is the inadequacy of forensic laboratories and modern technological facilities. Many law enforcement agencies lack the necessary equipment required for proper scientific examination and evidence analysis.
Another significant challenge is the shortage of trained forensic experts and specialists. Most criminal investigations in Nigeria are still conducted through traditional policing methods rather than scientific techniques. This affects the accuracy and reliability of investigations, especially in complex criminal cases involving cybercrime, homicide, and terrorism.
Corruption within investigative agencies also constitutes a serious obstacle to forensic investigation in Nigeria. In some cases, evidence may be tampered with, manipulated, or deliberately suppressed for political or personal interests.
Poor funding, inadequate governmental support, and delays within the judicial system further weaken the development and effectiveness of forensic science in Nigeria. Unless these challenges are properly addressed, the full benefits of forensic investigation in Nigeria may remain unrealized.
- RECOMMENDATIONS AND FUTURE PROSPECTS
In order to improve the effectiveness of forensic science in Nigeria, there is a need for substantial governmental investment in modern forensic laboratories and advanced investigative technology. Adequate technological facilities will enhance the ability of law enforcement agencies to conduct accurate and scientific criminal investigations.
Government agencies should also organize specialized training programmes for police officers, judges, lawyers, and forensic experts in order to improve professionalism and technical competence in handling forensic evidence.
Nigeria should equally embrace emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, biometric systems, DNA databases, and digital forensic tools in combating crimes including terrorism, homicide, rape, and cybercrime. This will strengthen the efficiency and reliability of the criminal justice system.
If properly developed and effectively implemented, forensic science has the potential to significantly improve criminal justice administration in Nigeria by ensuring accurate investigations and promoting fairness and justice in criminal trials.
- CONCLUSION
Forensic science has become an indispensable tool in modern criminal investigation and the administration of justice across the world. In Nigeria, although legal provisions such as the Evidence Act 2011 recognize the admissibility of expert and scientific evidence, practical and institutional challenges continue to hinder the effectiveness of forensic science in criminal investigations.
Challenges such as inadequate forensic facilities, shortage of trained experts, corruption, poor funding, and excessive reliance on confessional statements have weakened the effectiveness of forensic investigations within the Nigerian criminal justice system. Consequently, there is an urgent need for reforms aimed at strengthening forensic institutions and improving investigative procedures in the country.
The establishment of functional forensic laboratories, proper governmental support, and the adoption of modern scientific technologies are essential for improving criminal investigations, reducing wrongful convictions, protecting fundamental human rights, and promoting justice and fairness within the Nigerian legal system.
BIBLIOGRAPHY
Table of Legislation
- Administration of Criminal Justice Act 2015
- Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999
- Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act 2015
- Evidence Act 2011
Table of Cases
- COP v Alozie (Unreported)
- FRN v Fani-Kayode (Unreported)
- R v Onitiri [1946] 12 WACA 58
Books
- Aguda TA, Law of Evidence in Nigeria (MIJ Publishers 2010)
- Nwadiolo F, Modern Nigerian Law of Evidence (2nd edn, University of Lagos Press 1999)
