Lagos signs agreement to build DNA forensic centre

To aid investigation on domestic and sexual violence cases, the Lagos Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice Mr. Adeniji Kazeem has signed the agreement on the DNA Forensic Centre.

With him at the official signing was the Solicitor-General and Permanent Secretary Ministry of Justice, Mrs. Funlola Odunlami, the representative of ITSI Bioscience LCC, Dr. Richard Somiasi.

This was disclosed in a statement signed by the (DDPA) Ministry of Justice, Mrs. Bola Akingbade who said that the establishment of the DNA forensic centre would aid investigation on domestic and sexual violence cases.

Speaking at the official signing of the agreement held at Alausa between Lagos State Government and ITSI Bioscience LCC, Kazeem said that the Lagos State DNA Forensics Centre (LSDFC) is a unique forensic technique that is now being used all over the world and it is aimed at achieving the growing DNA needs of criminal investigation.

He said the agreement signed was in fulfillment of the State Government’s plan to establish a DNA Forensic Centre in the State to facilitate prompt and effective prosecution of criminal activities.

The Attorney-General said the centre would aid investigation on domestic and sexual violence cases, boost family and paternity proceedings, help in identifying victims of natural and man-made disasters and also be a tool for the judicial system.

He noted that the centre would be equipped with state-of-the-art equipment to support all levels of DNA collection from people and objects, evidence examination, DNA analysis and provide evidential DNA storage.

“I am certain that the Lagos DNA forensic laboratory is going to be another unique solution to fighting crime in our quest for a safer and secure Lagos”, he stated.
However, Dr. Richard Somiasi signing on behalf of ITSI Bioscience LCC thanked the Lagos State Government and promised to live up to the task.