Journal for Christian theology and religious studies

KS Studies 2024, 1(2):61-80 | DOI: 10.32725/kss.2025.002

Theological Assessment of Auditing Effects on Fraud Detection and Prevention in Lagos Mainland Diocese

David Oluwabukunmi Ogunbiyi
Department of Religious Studies and Philosophy, Redeemer’s University, Nigeria

Nigeria ranks fifth in a global survey on cybercrime activities, following the US, China, Russia, and Ukraine. The World Cybercrime Index identifies Nigeria as a major hotspot for cybercrime, fraud, and corruption. Despite auditing being crucial for financial accountability, fraud remains a significant issue globally, particularly in Nigeria and the Church. Frequent fraud incidents raise questions about Nigeria’s current auditing procedures, highlighting potential financial losses, reputation damage, legal and regulatory consequences, and public trust in the nation and religious organisations. The aim of this study is to examine auditing effects on fraud detection and prevention from a theological perspective, using the Diocese of Lagos Mainland (Anglican Communion) as a case study. The study examined the influence of auditing on fraud detection and prevention in the Lagos Mainland Diocese, Nigeria. It involved 25 Diocesan Headquarters personnel and 25 auditors, selected through purposive sampling. Data was collected through structured questionnaires and semi-structured interviews, with the Treasury Department providing qualitative data. Internal audit reports, financial statements, and regulatory guidelines were reviewed for context. The study on the auditing’s impact on fraud detection and prevention is vital for enhancing knowledge and informing policymakers, regulatory bodies, and professional auditing organisations. It provides practical recommendations for improving fraud detection and prevention mechanisms, enhancing internal controls, reducing risk, and enhancing financial integrity. The findings also support the professional development of auditors and accounting professionals, promoting financial transparency and accountability in organisations.

Keywords: Nigeria, Lagos Mainland Diocese, fraud, corruption, fraud detection, fraud prevention

Received: August 12, 2024; Revised: January 25, 2025; Accepted: March 10, 2025; Published: July 29, 2026  Show citation

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Ogunbiyi, D.O. (2024). Theological Assessment of Auditing Effects on Fraud Detection and Prevention in Lagos Mainland Diocese. KS Studies, 1(2), 61-80. doi: 10.32725/kss.2025.002
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