Combating Fraud Through Forensic Accounting

Abstract

This study examines the potential application of forensic accounting in detecting and preventing of fraudulent activities in the administration of Islamic inheritance in Kano State, Nigeria. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with some selected experts who are aware of Islamic inheritance and forensic accounting. Thematic analysis was used. The study established the nature and forms of the fraudulent activities committed in the administration of Islamic inheritance, such as non-compliance with the provision of Islamic inheritance law, hiding some inherited estate, the non-usage of professional valuers and the advice of experts, misappropriation of inherited cash, mismanagement of inherited wealth, etc. The key fraudsters include the eldest heirs, the parents of heirs (particularly mothers), court officials, estate valuers, relatives and the trustees of the deceased. The respondents strongly believe that forensic accounting could be used as a reliable instrument to detect and prevent such forms of fraudulent activities.