Background of the Study
Procurement fraud is a significant challenge in Nigerian public institutions, resulting in resource mismanagement, inflated contract costs, and poor service delivery. Fraud audits, which involve thorough reviews of procurement processes and documentation, are critical tools for mitigating this issue (Bamidele & Nwosu, 2024). Lagos State, as Nigeria’s economic hub, has implemented several procurement reforms, but fraudulent practices persist due to systemic corruption and weak oversight (Okon & Adegbite, 2025).
This study examines the role of fraud audits in mitigating procurement fraud within Lagos State public institutions, contributing to the discourse on promoting accountability and efficiency in public resource management.
Statement of the Problem
Procurement fraud undermines public trust and hampers the effective delivery of public services. Despite regulatory frameworks such as the Public Procurement Act, procurement fraud remains prevalent in Lagos State’s public institutions. Fraud audits offer a potential solution, but their implementation faces challenges such as limited auditor expertise, political interference, and inadequate funding (Adebayo & Salami, 2023).
This study seeks to explore how fraud audits can effectively mitigate procurement fraud in Lagos State, addressing the gaps in current practices and recommending improvements.
Objectives of the Study
To analyze the role of fraud audits in mitigating procurement fraud in Lagos State public institutions.
To identify challenges affecting the effectiveness of fraud audits in procurement processes.
To recommend strategies for improving fraud audit practices in Lagos State.
Research Questions
How do fraud audits mitigate procurement fraud in Lagos State public institutions?
What challenges affect the effectiveness of fraud audits in Lagos State?
What strategies can improve fraud audit practices in procurement processes?
Research Hypotheses
Fraud audits significantly mitigate procurement fraud in Lagos State public institutions.
The effectiveness of fraud audits is constrained by challenges such as political interference and lack of expertise.
Improved fraud audit practices enhance procurement integrity in public institutions.
Scope and Limitations of the Study
The study focuses on fraud audits in Lagos State public institutions, particularly their role in mitigating procurement fraud. Limitations include potential resistance from public officials to disclose procurement data and limited access to audit reports.
Definitions of Terms
Procurement Fraud: Fraudulent activities related to public procurement processes, including bribery, collusion, and misrepresentation.
Fraud Audit: A systematic review of procurement activities to detect and prevent fraudulent practices.
Public Institution: Government-owned organizations responsible for providing services to the public.
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