The admissibility of fingerprint evidence: An African perspective

Fingerprint analysis involves the comparison of a latent print and an exemplar using the standard ACE-V methodology. The uniqueness and persistence of fingerprints form the basis of their use as unique human identifiers. Despite its usefulness in criminal investigation, fingerprint analysis has been criticised for its likelihood to, sometimes, occasion avoidable miscarriages of justice. The causes of error in fingerprint analysis include cognitive bias, non-conforming regulatory standards, and ethical misconduct. This article analyses the types and causes of error in fingerprint analysis vis-à-vis the common law requirement in Nigeria and other Commonwealth countries to prove criminal charges beyond reasonable doubt. Finally, it discusses the peculiar challenges of using forensic fingerprint analysis in the criminal justice system in developing countries and explores possible ways of solving these problems.