The Forensic Investigator Society
of Nigeria held a capacity-building seminar focused on "Investigation of
Election-Related Crime," with participants joining virtually at 10 AM.
The registrar, Oluwademilola
Oloyede, welcomed participants to a one-day capacity-building
seminar on the investigation of election-related crime organized by the
Forensic Investigator Society. She emphasized that the workshop is not
sponsored by any political party and should not trigger political arguments or
discussions.
The event featured presentations
from Dr. Lydia Chinayemba (Vice President), Dr. Adekunle Alaye, Barrister Queen
Oniwon, and Mr. Emmanuel Olomu, covering topics including forensic
investigation of election-related crimes, ballot paper analysis, and key
principles for investigating electoral malpractices under the Electoral Act
2026. The seminar emphasized that the Forensic Investigator Society is an
independent organization not affiliated with any political party, and
participants were reminded to avoid political arguments during discussions. The
session included practical demonstrations of forensic techniques for examining
ballot papers and fingerprints, as well as discussions on the challenges of
election-related crimes in Nigeria.
Combating Electoral Fraud in
Nigeria
Dr. Adekunle Alaye presented on
corruption and electoral fraud in Nigeria, recommending government
prioritization of election-related crimes, public reorientation, and engaging
Nigerian youth in building a strong value system. He emphasized the importance
of state policing and political education to combat electoral fraud. During the
Q&A session, Abraham asked about developing voter trust and mobilizing
community groups despite religious and ethnic diversities, while Abubakar
inquired about the history of forensic techniques applied to detect electoral
fraud in Nigeria
Electoral Ballot Forensic
Investigation Techniques
Emmanuel Olomu, the Chairman,
Governing Council and a questioned document examiner presented on forensic
techniques for investigating electoral ballot papers, focusing on polling unit
codes and fingerprint analysis. He explained how polling unit codes in Nigeria
contain information about state, local government, ward, and polling unit
numbers, and demonstrated how these codes can be used to trace ballot paper
origins, detect diversions, and identify potential forgeries. The presentation
also covered fingerprint analysis on ballot papers, explaining the different
fingerprint patterns (arch, loop, whorl) and how minutiae points can be used
for identification, with similar fingerprints across multiple ballots being
identified as a red flag for potential election malpractice.
The presentation focused on
forensic examination procedures for investigating electoral fraud, specifically
regarding ballot paper analysis and fingerprint identification. The speaker
outlined a three-part investigation scope: determining if multiple ballot
papers bear impressions of the same finger, checking for evidence of tampering,
and examining fingerprint patterns. The discussion detailed specific procedures
including confirming chain of custody, photographing ballot boxes and
documentation, and analyzing grouped fingerprints using minute details to
differentiate between ballots.
AIG Shehu Gwazo (RTD) contributed
insights on scanning ballot papers at 500-600 DPI in JPEG format and obtaining
CTC stamps from INEC representatives. DCI Isah Ibrahim Zaik emphasized the
importance of holistic examination beyond fingerprints, including analyzing the
substrate, stamps, and signatures of officers involved.
Electoral Malpractices
Investigation Presentation
Barrister Oseiza Queen Oniwon delivered
a presentation on investigating electoral malpractices in Nigeria, focusing on
the Electoral Act of 2026 and key principles for forensic investigators. She
outlined various electoral malpractices including non-disclosure of party
affiliation, multiple registrations, and financial violations, emphasizing the
importance of electronic result transmission and substantial compliance with
electoral laws. The session concluded with questions from Abraham and Ibrahim
about collaboration in forensic work and strategies for handling
cross-examination in court. Oluwademilade announced upcoming events including
an induction on May 30th and Question Documents Examination training starting
April 4th, with details provided for membership and course enrolment.
