NATURE OF FORENSIC SCIENCE AVAILABLE WITHIN THE NIGERIAN CRIMINAL JUSTICE SYSTEM AND ITS IMPLICATIONS FOR CRIME CONTROL IN SOUTH EAST NIGERIA

Abstract

Forensic science plays a critical role in modern criminal justice systems by enhancing crime detection, investigation, and prosecution. In Nigeria, however, the integration and effectiveness of forensic science in the criminal justice system remain unevenly distributed and underexplored, particularly at the regional level. This study examines the nature and availability of forensic science within the Nigerian criminal justice system and assesses its implications for crime control in the South East region of Nigeria. The study utilized both primary and secondary data. The study employed a mixed-methods research design and used a multi-stage sampling technique to select a sample of 390. Data were collected through structured questionnaires and in-depth interviews with forensic experts, law enforcement officers, judicial personnel, correctional officers, and policymakers. Quantitative data were analyzed using SPSS version 26, applying descriptive statistics and Chi-square (χ²) tests, while qualitative data were analyzed thematically. The study found that the criminal justice system makes use of a wide range of forensic evidence, including DNA analysis, hair analysis, and ballistic and tool marks, among others. The study found no statistically significant relationship between the availability of forensic science techniques and the effectiveness of crime control in South-East Nigeria. Thus, the presence or awareness of forensic science does not appear to have a strong or direct influence on crime reduction in the region. Findings further showed that forensic science capacity in South East Nigeria is limited in scope, infrastructure, and technical expertise, with reliance predominantly on traditional investigative methods rather than advanced forensic techniques such as DNA profiling, digital forensics, and forensic pathology. Based on the findings, this study recommends that the government should strengthen the forensic infrastructure and capacity by investing in modern laboratory facilities, equipment, and technology at both federal and state-level laboratories, with a focus on increasing accessibility in semi-urban and rural areas.