25/06/2026
THM-SA Advocacy Update: Enugu’s Digital Leap in Security — A New Era of Evidence-Based Justice
Enugu State has taken a significant step toward modernising security, criminal investigation, and justice delivery with the commissioning of the Centre for DNA Forensics and Criminal Investigation (CeDFoCI).
The establishment of this centre represents more than an investment in technology; it represents a shift toward a justice system built on scientific evidence, transparency, accountability, and respect for human dignity.
For years, criminal investigations in many parts of Nigeria have faced challenges due to limited access to advanced forensic tools, resulting in unresolved cases, delayed justice, and weakened public confidence.
The new DNA forensic centre seeks to change that reality by introducing stronger investigative capacity capable of identifying evidence, supporting law enforcement, and helping courts arrive at decisions based on facts rather than assumptions.
Governor Peter Mbah, while commissioning the facility, emphasised that criminals will face a new reality where technology strengthens the ability of authorities to detect, investigate, and prosecute wrongdoing.
His message was clear: every crime leaves evidence, and modern forensic science provides the tools to uncover the truth.
Security Must Protect Citizens and Human Rights
At THM-SA, we recognise that security and human rights must move together.
A safer society is not only one where criminals are held accountable; it is also one where investigations are conducted professionally, evidence is properly handled, and innocent citizens are protected from wrongful accusations.
The introduction of DNA forensics presents an opportunity to strengthen justice by:
* Improving accuracy in criminal investigations
* Reducing reliance on confessions or assumptions
* Supporting victims seeking justice
* Protecting innocent individuals from wrongful prosecution
* Building greater trust between citizens and institutions
A New Standard for Criminal Investigation
The importance of CeDFoCI extends beyond Enugu State.
The facility has the potential to support:
* Homicide investigations
* Kidnapping cases
* Sexual offence investigations
* Human trafficking cases
* Missing persons identification
* Terrorism and organised crime investigations
As criminal networks become more sophisticated, security institutions must also adopt modern tools that match the complexity of emerging threats.
The Responsibility That Comes With Advanced Technology
While celebrating this milestone, THM-SA also emphasises that advanced security tools must always operate within the principles of justice, privacy, and human rights.
DNA information is extremely sensitive. Its collection, storage, and use must be guided by:
* Clear legal frameworks
* Proper oversight
* Data protection standards
* Professional ethics
Technology should strengthen justice, not create new risks for citizens.
Partnership Between Government, Academia and Society
The collaboration between the Enugu State Government, Godfrey Okoye University, and the Nigeria DNA Learning Centre demonstrates the importance of partnerships in solving national challenges.
Security cannot be the responsibility of government alone.
Universities, civil society organisations, communities, and citizens all have roles to play in building safer societies.
The future of security in Africa will depend on innovation, knowledge, and responsible institutions.
THM-SA Position
THM-SA welcomes initiatives that strengthen citizen protection, improve access to justice, and promote professional security practices.
The fight against crime must always remain rooted in truth, evidence, fairness, and respect for human dignity.
A society where justice is guided by science is a society moving closer to trust and accountability.
Enugu’s forensic investment is not only a security development — it is a step toward a more transparent and responsible justice system.
