Background of the Study
Local government councils in Nigeria face increasing pressure to ensure the proper use of public funds and improve service delivery. However, many councils struggle with financial mismanagement, corruption, and a lack of accountability, which impedes their ability to provide essential services to citizens. Forensic accounting has emerged as an effective tool to address these challenges, as it involves the use of specialized skills to investigate financial discrepancies and detect fraud.
This study examines the role of forensic accounting in enhancing accountability within local government councils in Nigeria, focusing specifically on Dikwa Local Government in Borno State. By using forensic accounting techniques, this study will investigate the effectiveness of these practices in improving transparency and accountability in local governance.
Statement of the Problem
Local government councils in Nigeria often face issues related to financial mismanagement and fraud, with limited systems in place to ensure financial accountability. Forensic accounting can play a critical role in identifying irregularities, detecting fraud, and ensuring proper use of public funds. However, there is limited empirical research on the impact of forensic accounting in improving accountability within local government councils in Nigeria. This study aims to fill this gap by focusing on the case of Dikwa Local Government.
Aim and Objectives of the Study
The aim of this study is to evaluate the role of forensic accounting in enhancing financial accountability in Dikwa Local Government, Borno State. The specific objectives are:
To assess the current financial accountability practices in Dikwa Local Government.
To examine how forensic accounting techniques can detect and prevent financial mismanagement in local government councils.
To evaluate the effectiveness of forensic accounting in improving accountability and transparency in Dikwa Local Government.
Research Questions
What are the current financial accountability practices in Dikwa Local Government?
How can forensic accounting techniques enhance the detection of financial mismanagement in local government councils?
To what extent has forensic accounting improved financial accountability and transparency in Dikwa Local Government?
Research Hypotheses
Forensic accounting techniques have a significant impact on the detection and prevention of financial mismanagement in Dikwa Local Government.
The use of forensic accounting enhances the overall accountability and transparency in local government financial practices.
Forensic accounting plays a critical role in improving public trust in the financial practices of local government councils.
Significance of the Study
This study will contribute to understanding the role of forensic accounting in enhancing financial accountability in local government councils in Nigeria. The findings will be beneficial to policymakers, auditors, and local government officials in improving governance and combating corruption in the public sector.
Scope and Limitation of the Study
The study will focus on Dikwa Local Government, Borno State, examining its financial practices from 2010 to 2025. Limitations include access to detailed financial records and the potential challenge of obtaining cooperation from local government officials.
Definition of Terms
Forensic Accounting: The application of accounting skills to investigate financial irregularities, fraud, and other financial discrepancies.
Financial Accountability: The responsibility of government officials and entities to use public funds properly and transparently.
Local Government Council: A form of government that operates at the local level, providing services such as infrastructure, education, and healthcare to local communities.
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