By Christian Asema
In a recent interview with ITV on November 16th, 2023, renowned gubernatorial aspirant in Edo state Dr. Dennis Osahon Aikoriogie emphasized the crucial need for fingerprint and facial identification in the fight against crime in Nigeria. Driven by the escalating crime rates in the country, Dr. Aikoriogie asserts that implementing these identification measures will provide law enforcement agencies with essential information to identify and apprehend criminals more effectively.
With Nigeria grappling with various criminal activities such as armed robbery, kidnapping, and fraud, Dr. Aikoriogie believes that relying solely on traditional methods of investigating crimes is no longer adequate. In his interview, he stressed the importance of incorporating technological advancements and biometrics to bolster the country’s security apparatus.
Advocating for a comprehensive system that combines fingerprint and facial identification, Dr. Aikoriogie suggests that every Nigerian citizen should be enrolled in such a database. This initiative would require citizens to provide their fingerprints and have high-resolution photographs taken, enabling law enforcement agencies to accurately identify individuals involved in criminal activities. Additionally, the database would allow for swift cross-referencing of criminal records, aiding in expediting investigations and reducing bottlenecks.
This proposed measure would not only help law enforcement agencies in identifying criminals but also serve as a deterrent to potential wrongdoers. The implementation of fingerprint and facial identification systems has proven successful in combating crime in several developed countries, leading to increased public safety and a decline in criminal activities.
Dr. Aikoriogie further stressed the need for policymakers and legislators to consider the implications surrounding personal privacy and data protection. Ensuring that these identification methods adhere to stringent privacy guidelines and safeguards would eliminate concerns and potential abuses related to citizens’ personal information.
While acknowledging the complexities and challenges surrounding the implementation of such a comprehensive system, Dr. Aikoriogie believes that the benefits far outweigh any potential issues. Emphasizing the urgent need for advanced crime prevention strategies, he urges the Nigerian government to take necessary steps and invest in the necessary technology and infrastructure.
The proposal by Dr. Dennis Osahon Aikoriogie to introduce fingerprint and facial identification as a crime prevention tool sets forth a path towards a safer and secure Nigeria. With focused efforts towards implementing this advanced identification system, law enforcement agencies can significantly strengthen their ability to combat crime, ensuring the safety and well-being of Nigerian citizens.
