Background of the Study
Professional misconduct in auditing refers to unethical practices or violations of professional standards, such as falsifying reports or engaging in conflicts of interest. Such misconduct can severely compromise audit outcomes, leading to financial scandals, loss of public trust, and regulatory penalties (Eze, 2023). In Nigeria, the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) plays a central role in monitoring and sanctioning professional misconduct to uphold the integrity of the auditing profession.
This study focuses on cases sanctioned by ICAN to evaluate the impact of professional misconduct on audit outcomes, with the aim of identifying systemic weaknesses and recommending strategies for improvement.
Statement of the Problem
Despite ICAN’s regulatory oversight, instances of professional misconduct among auditors in Nigeria persist. Such misconduct undermines the credibility of audit reports and exposes organizations to financial and reputational risks. However, there is limited research on the specific effects of these cases on audit outcomes and the measures needed to address them.
By examining cases sanctioned by ICAN, this study aims to provide insights into the causes and consequences of professional misconduct in auditing and its impact on audit outcomes.
Objectives of the Study
To analyze the nature of professional misconduct in cases sanctioned by ICAN.
To evaluate the impact of professional misconduct on audit outcomes in Nigeria.
To recommend strategies for mitigating professional misconduct in auditing.
Research Questions
What is the nature of professional misconduct in cases sanctioned by ICAN?
How does professional misconduct impact audit outcomes in Nigeria?
What strategies can mitigate professional misconduct in auditing?
Research Hypotheses
H₀: Professional misconduct does not significantly affect audit outcomes in Nigeria.
H₀: Cases sanctioned by ICAN do not provide significant insights into professional misconduct in auditing.
H₀: Effective strategies cannot mitigate professional misconduct in auditing.
Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study focuses on cases of professional misconduct sanctioned by ICAN between 2023 and 2025. It evaluates their impact on audit outcomes and explores strategies for improvement. Limitations include reliance on publicly available data and potential lack of access to detailed case records.
Definitions of Terms
Professional Misconduct: Unethical practices or violations of professional standards by auditors.
Audit Outcomes: The results and conclusions derived from the auditing process.
ICAN: The Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria, a professional body regulating the accounting and auditing profession in Nigeria.
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