Illuminating the path forward: Recap on AFPON 2023 3rd Annual National Conference on Forensics and National Development
Introduction:
In the grand tapestry of a nation’s progress, certain elements stand as integral threads that weave together growth, justice, and accountability. The 2023 Annual Conference was a dynamic platform that brought together a diverse array of experts, each contributing their unique perspectives on the vital interplay between Forensics and National Development. Through a series of enlightening paper presentations, participants were treated to a comprehensive exploration of how forensics catalyzes progress on a national scale.
Exploring Diverse Topics:
- Forensics and National Development – Shehu Gwarzo, CP. Forensics, Nigeria Police Force:
CP. Shehu Gwarzo’s presentation delved into the core concept of forensic science, its purpose to uncover facts, establish truth, and present evidence that withstands rigorous scrutiny in a court of law. He discussed how economic growth and creating job opportunities can reduce crime and boost national development. Participants were also exposed to the causes of crime, national development indices, and security including forensic challenges and solutions.
- Aging Wandering Larvae of the Blow Fly Calliphora vicina Based on the Degeneration of the Salivary Glands for Post Mortem Interval Estimations – Dr. Richard J. Kutshik, Researcher University of Jos:
Dr. Richard J. Kutshik’s paper explored his research on how forensic entomology uses the age of immature blowflies as a marker to estimate the minimum post-mortem interval (PMImin) of corpses.
- Acceptability of Forensic Evidence in the Nigerian Court – Gilbert Tor, Director of Research, National Judicial Institute:
Gilbert Tor’s presentation highlighted the interlink between forensic evidence and forensic science, the background of forensic evidence, and evidence as a feature and tool in the system and processes of Justice and financial administration. Through a judicial case study, participants gained an understanding of the admissibility of Forensic Evidence in Lagos, Nigeria.
- Facilitating Economic and Financial Crimes through Forensics – Gideon Dabi:
Gideon Dabi who represented the EFCC Executive Chairman, Abdulrasheed Bawa in his presentation took participants through the history of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission’s investigation strategy and efforts of the commission in providing scientific and professional investigation and prosecution of criminal cases and support to other agencies with the capacity and efficiency of it’s forensic laboratory.
Conclusion:
The paper presentations on “Forensics and National Development” at the conference unveiled a rich tapestry of insights that collectively reinforced the integral role of forensics in shaping progress on a national scale. The diverse topics showcased how forensics catalyze development. As participants absorbed the knowledge shared by experts, they left the conference with a broader understanding of how embracing forensics can steer a nation toward a more secure, just, and prosperous future.
Additional Media content could be found here