Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah has sent a strong warning to criminals in the state that there is no more hiding place for them, as his administration has strengthened its capacity to pre-empt, track, and prosecute offenders through modern forensic capabilities.
Mbah gave the warning on Wednesday during the inauguration of the Centre for DNA Forensics and Criminal Investigation (CeDFoCI) at Godfrey Okoye University, Ugwuomu Nike, Enugu. The facility is a strategic partnership between the Enugu State Government, Godfrey Okoye University, and the Nigeria DNA Learning Centre. The governor said while Enugu remains open for business, investment, and innovation, criminal elements seeking to undermine peace and security would face the full weight of justice. “So, Enugu is open to investors. Enugu is open to innovators. Enugu is open to people who want to build, create, and contribute. But for those who seek to undermine the peace and security of our people, the message is very simple: you can run, but you cannot hide,” Mbah stated emphatically.
He described the new forensic centre as one of the most significant investments in the state’s security architecture in line with his Citizens’ Charter. According to him, the centre will enhance crime scene investigation, evidence gathering, and prosecution through world-class forensic science. Mbah explained that every crime scene leaves traces such as fingerprints, DNA, hair or blood samples that can now be scientifically analysed. He urged residents to maintain a safe distance from crime scenes and allow professionals to secure evidence. The governor also commended President Bola Tinubu for his reforms, including the transmission of the State Police Bill to the National Assembly, saying it demonstrates support for devolution of policing powers to states.
Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), described the centre as a profound contribution to national security and the justice system. He said it would equip law enforcement with modern tools and provide credible scientific evidence for prosecutions. Inspector-General of Police Olatunji Disu noted that the facility would strengthen investigations into serious crimes such as homicide, kidnapping, terrorism, and armed robbery, while building public confidence in the criminal justice system. Vice Chancellor of Godfrey Okoye University, Professor Christian Anieke, and the centre’s Founding Director, Professor George Ude, highlighted its role in training professionals and advancing forensic research in Nigeria.
The establishment of CeDFoCI is seen as a major boost to forensic capabilities in the South-East and a model for evidence-based criminal justice nationwide. This initiative addresses long-standing gaps in forensic investigation that have often led to delayed justice or wrongful convictions due to reliance on circumstantial evidence. With state-of-the-art DNA sequencing and analysis equipment, the centre will enable faster case resolution and stronger prosecutions, particularly in high-profile cases involving violent crimes. Security experts believe it will serve as a powerful deterrent to criminals who previously exploited weaknesses in evidence collection.
The centre also aligns with Governor Mbah’s broader security and development agenda, which emphasises technology-driven governance and citizen protection. By investing in forensic infrastructure, Enugu is positioning itself as a leader in modern policing within the South-East region. Stakeholders have praised the move as a proactive step that complements other security measures, including community engagement and intelligence-led operations. As the facility begins operations, it is expected to support not only Enugu but also neighbouring states in building a more robust criminal justice system.
The inauguration comes at a critical time when the country is advancing the State Police Bill, which many believe will further empower states like Enugu to tackle insecurity more effectively. Governor Mbah’s administration has consistently prioritised security as a foundation for economic growth and investor confidence. With this new forensic centre, Enugu is sending a clear message that the era of untraceable crimes is ending, and justice will be swift and science-backed.
