The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) and Fraud Prosecution in Oyo State
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Date
2025-12
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Lead City University Ibadan
Abstract
Fraud continues to be a pervasive challenge in Nigeria, undermining governance, destabilizing institutions, and eroding public trust. This study investigates the prosecution of fraud by the Anti-Fraud Unit of the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Oyo State, focusing on patterns, perpetrators, tactics, and systemic constraints. Grounded in the Fraud Triangle Theory and Routine Activity Theory, the research bridges gaps in existing literature by illuminating the role of NSCDC in localized fraud detection, which has been largely underexplored compared to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). Employing a qualitative approach, the study draws on primary data from interviews with seven NSCDC detectives and a detailed review of 27 fraud case files in the NSCDC Anti Fraud Unit Dataset. Purposive sampling technique was used to ensure the inclusion of significant cases, while content analysis was employed to uncover trends and systemic bottlenecks. Findings reveal that Obtaining by False Pretense (OBT) and Visa Racketeering (VR) are the most prevalent fraud types, driven by economic hardship, societal pressures, and weak regulatory systems. Financial and technological constraints were identified as key challenges limiting the NSCDC's investigative capacity, with underfunding and lack of advanced forensic tools delaying case resolutions. The study concludes that while the NSCDC demonstrates resilience and effectiveness in combating grassroots fraud, its potential remains underutilized due to systemic barriers. It recommends increased funding, inter
agency collaboration, and public education campaigns to strengthen fraud prevention and prosecution. This research underscores the critical role of the NSCDC in Nigeria’s anti-fraud efforts and advocates for its enhanced capacity to address evolving fraud dynamics.
Keywords: NSCDC, Fraud, Crime Investigation, Victimisation and Oyo State
Word Count: 259
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Keywords
NSCDC, Fraud, Crime Investigation, Victimisation and Oyo State
Citation
Kate Turabian