Background of the Study
Budgetary fraud has become a significant challenge in Nigerian state governments, where funds allocated for public projects and services are often diverted or misused. Ogun State, one of Nigeria's most economically significant states, has witnessed incidents of budgetary fraud that have affected its developmental projects and financial stability (Fagbohun & Oke, 2023). Despite the introduction of various financial management reforms and anti-corruption measures, the detection and prevention of budgetary fraud remain difficult due to the complexity and scale of fraudulent activities.
Forensic accounting provides an effective means of identifying and investigating budgetary fraud. Forensic accountants employ techniques such as detailed analysis of financial records, examination of expenditure patterns, and use of data mining tools to uncover discrepancies in budgeting and financial reporting (Adekoya & Adekunle, 2024). These professionals assist in tracing misappropriated funds, exposing fraudulent transactions, and ensuring that government resources are used for their intended purposes. The Ogun State Government has implemented forensic accounting tools in some of its financial management systems, but the extent of their impact on detecting budgetary fraud remains unclear.
This study aims to evaluate the impact of forensic accounting on detecting budgetary fraud in Ogun State Government. By assessing the application of forensic accounting techniques in detecting fraudulent activities, the research will provide insights into how these methods can strengthen financial management and reduce corruption in public budgeting.
Statement of the Problem
Despite the implementation of various measures to curb budgetary fraud, the Ogun State Government continues to face challenges in detecting and addressing fraudulent financial activities. Traditional auditing methods often fail to identify fraudulent practices in budget preparation and execution, leading to financial losses and mismanagement (Fagbohun & Oke, 2023). This study aims to examine the role of forensic accounting in detecting budgetary fraud, evaluating its effectiveness in enhancing transparency, and identifying the challenges faced in its application.
Objectives of the Study
To assess the impact of forensic accounting on detecting budgetary fraud in Ogun State Government.
To evaluate the effectiveness of forensic accounting techniques in improving transparency in the budgeting process.
To identify the challenges encountered by forensic accountants in detecting budgetary fraud in Ogun State Government.
Research Questions
How does forensic accounting impact the detection of budgetary fraud in Ogun State Government?
To what extent do forensic accounting techniques improve transparency in the budgeting process in Ogun State?
What challenges do forensic accountants face in detecting budgetary fraud within Ogun State Government?
Research Hypotheses
Forensic accounting significantly impacts the detection of budgetary fraud in Ogun State Government.
Forensic accounting techniques improve transparency in the budgeting process within Ogun State.
Forensic accountants face significant challenges in detecting budgetary fraud in Ogun State Government.
Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study will focus on the role of forensic accounting in detecting budgetary fraud in the Ogun State Government, particularly in the areas of budgeting and financial oversight. The study will be limited to the period between 2015 and 2025 and may face challenges in accessing specific financial records, as well as potential reluctance from state officials to disclose information on budgetary discrepancies.
Definitions of Terms
Forensic Accounting: The use of accounting techniques to investigate and uncover financial fraud, including budgetary fraud, within organizations and public institutions.
Budgetary Fraud: The illegal manipulation or misallocation of funds in the preparation, allocation, or execution of a government’s budget.
Ogun State Government: The administrative body governing Ogun State, Nigeria, responsible for the management of public resources and finances.
Financial Transparency: The clear and honest disclosure of financial records, allowing for public scrutiny and ensuring the proper allocation of government funds.
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