FORENSIC ACCOUNTING AND FRAUD DETECTION IN PUBLIC HIGHER INSTITUTIONS IN GOMBE METROPOLIS

Abstract

Forensic accounting is a specialized discipline within accounting that merges accounting, auditing, and investigative skills to address financial misconduct. This discipline plays a crucial role in detecting financial fraud, identifying discrepancies, and providing evidence for legal proceedings. This study investigates the role of forensic accounting in fraud detection within public higher institutions in Gombe Metropolis, Gombe State, Nigeria. The primary objective is to assess how forensic accounting practices mitigate in these institutions. The study targeted a population of 86 bursary and audit staff members from public higher institutions in Gombe Metropolis. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire, and hypotheses were tested using linear regression analysis. Findings reveal that fraud detection and prevention measures are crucial in enhancing perceptions of forensic accounting effectiveness. While challenges and limitations associated with forensic accounting are acknowledged, they are less influential than fraud detection and prevention measures. Implementing forensic accounting practices enhances the effectiveness of fraud detection and prevention, thereby improving perceptions of its value in protecting institutional resources. The study recommends that institutions should improve fraud detection and prevention mechanisms, enhance compliance and legal frameworks to support forensic accounting, and provide training for staff on the latest forensic accounting practices and fraud prevention techniques.