Enhancing Evidence Integrity in Nigeria’s Criminal Justice System: A Doctrinal Analysis of Blockchain Technology Adoption

Abstract

Blockchain technology offers a revolutionary solution to Nigeria's criminal justice system's enduring problems with evidence integrity. Weak chain-of-custody protocols, human error, and the increasing use of digital evidence all pose threats to Nigeria's legal system. The potential of blockchain as a governance and procedural tool is examined in this paper, with an emphasis on how it might improve accountability, transparency, auditability, and procedural reliability. It examines current academic literature and legislation provisions, such as the Evidence Act of 2023 and the Administration of Criminal Justice Act of 2015, which have decided Nigerian cases involving electronic evidence using a qualitative doctrinal approach. While propositions assess blockchain's potential to enhance evidence integrity and court confidence, research questions look at its operational viability, institutional preparedness, and legal compatibility. Comparative insights from China, the European Union, and the United States inform lessons for Nigeria. The paper makes a theoretical contribution by characterising blockchain as a socio-technical governance infrastructure, a doctrinal contribution by incorporating it with evidence law, and a practical contribution by providing policy recommendations for the transformation of the justice sector. Studies have shown that using blockchain technology can greatly improve evidence management, reduce procedural errors, and boost trust while bringing up ethical and human rights issues. Doctrinal restrictions and the quick advancement of technology are among the limitations, pilot testing and the integration of AI and blockchain are suggested.