FORENSIC INVESTIGATION AND LITIGATION SUPPORT EFFICACY ON FRAUD PREVENTION IN PUBLIC AGRICULTURAL SECTOR IN NIGERIA
This study examines the efficacy of forensic investigation and litigation support in fraud prevention within Nigeria’s public agricultural sector. Fraud remains a pervasive issue, with significant misappropriation of agricultural funds, land acquisition fraud, and financial misrepresentation. The study employs a descriptive survey research design, utilizing structured questionnaires administered to relevant personnel in the Federal Ministry of Agriculture. Findings indicate that forensic investigation significantly influence fraud prevention by enhancing financial scrutiny and accountability, while forensic litigation support plays a lesser role in proactive fraud mitigation. The research underscores the necessity of integrating forensic accounting with advanced technological tools such as digital forensics with robust technology. Recommendations include strengthening forensic practices, enforcing stricter legal frameworks, and fostering inter-agency collaboration. Limitations of the study include sample constraints and the evolving nature of forensic technologies, suggesting further research into the integration of artificial intelligence in fraud detection.
Keywords: Forensic Investigation, Litigation Support, Fraud Prevention, Public Agricultural Sector and Nigeria.
