Anti-Corruption Investigators’ Perception of the Role of Records and Records Management in Nigeria

Abstract

This study aims to explore records’ contributions to anti-corruption investigations. The study answers the question: what is the perception of anti- corruption investigators on the role of records and records management in their work? The goal is to produce new knowledge of the role records plays in  investigating corruption related offences. It presents findings from a qualitative explorative case study. Fifteen Nigeria’s anti-corruption investigators were interviewed in the year 2020. Interview data collated are analysed using thematic analysis. The study reveals that adequate records alone cannot ensure  accountability despite the nexus between proper recordkeeping and corruption. Enhancing the integrity and authenticity of records as the most  acceptable accountability tool will add significant value for ease of use by accountability forums.