Relevance of Forensic Accounting in the Detection and Prevention of Fraud in Nigeria

Abstract

The increase in the number of cases of financial fraud due to failure of statutory audit to detect and prevent fraudulent activities has given rise for the services of forensic accountants. This paper highlights how forensic accountants can be employed to resolve this challenge. The study was a theoretical research which considered the roles of forensic accountants in combating fraudulent activities, differences between a forensic accountant and traditional accountant, features of a forensic accountant and the impact of forensic accountants to detect and prevent fraud. From the research, it was found out amongst others that their services will assist audit committee members in carrying out their oversight functions by providing them assurance on internal audit report. Some of the recommendations proffered is for government to ameliorate the cost of hiring the services of forensic accountants and to treat culprits equally without any favoritism.

Keywords: Forensic Accountant, Financial Fraud, Statutory Audit, Fraud Prevention, Fraud Detection.