Forensic Handwriting Examination and Signature Verification in Banking Fraud Cases in Abuja

Signature forgery in banking transactions remains a persistent form of financial fraud in Nigeria, with forensic document examiners playing a critical evidentiary role in civil and criminal proceedings arising from disputed banking instruments. This study examines the application of forensic handwriting examination and signature verification in banking fraud cases investigated in Abuja between 2020 and 2024. A descriptive case study design was used, reviewing thirty-five banking fraud case files from the EFCC and three commercial banks, conducting structured interviews with eight forensic document examiners, and assessing the instruments and reference materials available for signature comparison. The study evaluates the methodologies applied, the quality of examiner conclusions, and the reception of handwriting evidence in administrative and judicial forums. Findings indicate that comparison microscopy is the primary examination method, with digital image analysis tools used in only thirty percent of cases. Examiner conclusions were expressed with varying levels of confidence and consistency, reducing their persuasive impact in evidentiary proceedings. Reference signature samples were insufficient for definitive comparison in twenty-eight percent of cases due to inadequate bank records retention. Recommendations include the standardisation of reference signature documentation procedures by Nigerian banks and the development of examiner certification standards under a recognised Nigerian professional body. Keywords: forensic handwriting, signature verification, banking fraud, Abuja, document examination.