Effect of Forensic Data Analysis on Fraud Detection of Listed Firms in Nigeria

This study examines the effect of forensic data analysis on fraud detection in listed firms in Nigeria. Fraudulent activities pose a significant threat to corporate governance, financial transparency, and investor confidence. With the rising complexity of corporate fraud, forensic data analysis has emerged as a critical tool in fraud detection. This study employs a quantitative research design, analyzing financial data from listed firms using statistical and forensic techniques. The findings reveal a significant positive relationship between forensic data analysis and fraud detection, indicating that the adoption of forensic tools enhances the ability to identify and prevent fraudulent activities. The study also highlights that firm-specific characteristics such as size, audit committee effectiveness, and regulatory compliance moderate the impact of forensic data analysis on fraud detection. The results underscore the necessity for organizations to integrate forensic data analytics into their risk management frameworks. Furthermore, the study recommends increased investment in forensic technologies, capacity building for auditors, and stricter regulatory oversight to enhance fraud detection effectiveness. Despite its contributions, the study is limited by data availability and potential biases in reported fraud cases. Future research could explore industry-specific applications of forensic data analysis and comparative studies across different regulatory environments.