THE RELEVANCE OF CRIMINAL PROFILING IN THE NIGERIAN CRIMINAL JUSTICE SYSTEM
Abstract
Criminal profiling is a technique that uses psychological and behavioral analysis to help investigators identify the characteristics of unknown offenders based on the evidence from the crime scene, the victim, and the witness. It is widely used in many countries to assist in solving serious crimes such as serial murder, rape, arson, and terrorism. However, in Nigeria, criminal profiling is still a relatively new and under-deveoped concept that faces many challenges and limitations. The aim of this study is to examine the relevance and feasibility of criminal profiling in the Nigerian criminal justice system, especially in relation to violent crimes. The study adopts a doctrinal approach that relies on primary and secondary sources of law. This means that both physical and online materials are used. The primary and secondary sources includes statutes, case law, law reports and books, journals, and articles and newspapers. The study finds that criminal profiling has the potential to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of crime investigation and prevention in Nigeria, but it also requires proper training, education, regulation, and collaboration among various stakeholders. The study concludes with some recommendations on how to improve the practice and application of criminal profiling in Nigeria.
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