Background of the Study
Corruption remains a significant challenge in Nigeria, hindering economic development and public trust in government institutions. The country has faced widespread financial mismanagement, embezzlement of public funds, and a lack of accountability in both the public and private sectors (Omolayo & Adedeji, 2023). As part of the effort to curb corruption, forensic accounting has gained prominence as an essential tool for investigating financial fraud, identifying misappropriation of funds, and ensuring transparency in government operations.
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has been at the forefront of Nigeria’s anti-corruption drive, working alongside other agencies to investigate and prosecute individuals involved in financial crimes (Adewale & Olorunfemi, 2024). Forensic accountants play a crucial role in assisting the EFCC by applying specialized investigative techniques to trace illicit financial transactions, analyze financial statements, and present evidence in legal proceedings.
This study focuses on evaluating forensic accounting’s contribution to Nigeria’s anti-corruption efforts, specifically within the operations of the EFCC. By examining the effectiveness of forensic accounting in detecting corruption and recovering misappropriated funds, the study seeks to determine whether forensic accounting practices have significantly enhanced the anti-corruption framework in Nigeria.
Statement of the Problem
Despite the ongoing efforts by the EFCC to combat corruption, financial mismanagement remains rampant in Nigeria. The challenge lies not only in detecting fraud but also in building trust in the effectiveness of anti-corruption initiatives. Forensic accounting is widely considered to be a key tool in addressing these issues, but its impact on the EFCC’s operations and the broader anti-corruption drive in Nigeria remains underexplored. This study aims to evaluate the contribution of forensic accounting to the EFCC’s efforts to combat corruption, focusing on the effectiveness of forensic investigations in detecting and preventing financial fraud within the public sector.
Objectives of the Study
To assess the role of forensic accounting in the EFCC’s operations related to investigating corruption cases.
To evaluate the effectiveness of forensic accounting techniques in uncovering financial mismanagement within Nigerian public institutions.
To identify the challenges faced by forensic accountants working with the EFCC in combating corruption.
Research Questions
What role does forensic accounting play in the EFCC’s operations in investigating corruption cases?
How effective are forensic accounting techniques in detecting financial mismanagement within Nigerian public institutions?
What challenges do forensic accountants face when collaborating with the EFCC in anti-corruption investigations?
Research Hypotheses
Forensic accounting significantly contributes to the success of EFCC operations in investigating corruption cases.
Forensic accounting techniques effectively uncover financial mismanagement in Nigerian public institutions.
Forensic accountants face significant challenges in investigating financial fraud in Nigeria’s public sector.
Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study will focus on the contribution of forensic accounting to the anti-corruption efforts of the EFCC, specifically examining the effectiveness of forensic accountants in investigating and prosecuting corruption cases. The research will explore the role of forensic accounting techniques, challenges encountered, and the outcomes of such investigations. Limitations include the availability of data on ongoing investigations, potential access barriers to confidential financial records, and the reluctance of participants to provide candid responses regarding sensitive corruption cases.
Definitions of Terms
Forensic Accounting: The use of accounting, auditing, and investigative skills to detect and resolve financial fraud and irregularities.
Corruption: The abuse of power or position for personal gain, typically involving bribery, embezzlement, or fraud.
Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC): A Nigerian government agency responsible for investigating financial crimes, including fraud, money laundering, and corruption.
Financial Mismanagement: The improper handling or misallocation of financial resources, often leading to corruption or wastefulness
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