Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah has declared that criminals now have “no hiding place” in the state following the commissioning of a new Centre for DNA Forensics and Criminal Investigation (CeDFoCI).
The facility, inaugurated on Wednesday at Godfrey Okoye University in Ugwuomu, Nike, is a partnership between the Enugu State Government, the university, and the Nigeria DNA Learning Centre.
Governor Mbah said the centre represents a major upgrade in the state’s security architecture, enabling authorities to track, investigate, and prosecute crimes using modern forensic science.
According to him, every crime scene now leaves behind traceable evidence that can be used to identify offenders.
“Every crime scene leaves a trace. And we can now track that trace and use it as evidence against you,” he said.
He warned that the era of unresolved crimes due to lack of scientific tools was over, adding that the new facility strengthens the ability of law enforcement agencies to solve complex cases.
The governor also urged residents to support investigations by avoiding contamination of crime scenes and promptly reporting incidents to security agencies.
“Henceforth, when crimes occur, keep a safe distance, promptly alert the authorities,” he advised.
Mbah emphasized that while the centre is located in Enugu, it will serve law enforcement agencies and institutions beyond the state, contributing to a stronger national justice system.
He also highlighted the importance of partnerships between government and academic institutions in addressing security challenges.
The Attorney General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi, described the facility as a major advancement for Nigeria’s justice system, noting that it will improve investigations and support the courts with reliable scientific evidence.
Similarly, the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, said the centre would enhance police investigations into serious crimes such as kidnapping, homicide, terrorism, and human trafficking.
Experts involved in the project said the initiative is aimed at ensuring that criminal justice in Nigeria is driven by scientific evidence rather than speculation.
Religious and academic leaders also praised the collaboration, describing it as a step forward in combining moral guidance, education, and security development.
