Project – DNA evidence and its role in resolving paternity dispute.

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

• Background to the Study

The advancement of DNA technology has revolutionized the field of genetic testing, particularly in resolving paternity disputes. DNA evidence is now considered the gold standard in determining biological relationships, providing a level of accuracy that traditional methods cannot match. According to Wexler and Thomas (2020), DNA testing can establish paternity with a probability exceeding 99.99%, making it a critical tool in legal and familial contexts. The accuracy and reliability of DNA evidence have led to its increasing adoption in various legal jurisdictions, including those in Nigeria.

In Plateau State, Nigeria, the establishment of the DNA Diagnosis Centre has marked a significant step towards resolving paternity disputes through scientific means. The Centre offers DNA testing services that are accessible to the public, aiming to provide clarity in cases of contested paternity. Research by Olabode and Adeyemi (2021) highlights that the Centre has played a pivotal role in enhancing the understanding and acceptance of DNA testing within the local population, often serving as a neutral ground for individuals seeking conclusive evidence in paternity matters.

Legal frameworks surrounding paternity disputes in Nigeria have traditionally relied on testimonies and circumstantial evidence, which can be subjective and prone to bias. The introduction of DNA evidence challenges these conventional practices by providing an objective basis for determining paternity. As noted by Udo and Okeke (2022), the incorporation of DNA evidence into legal proceedings has the potential to reduce the incidence of false claims and enhance the justice system’s credibility. This shift represents a significant evolution in how paternity disputes are approached, emphasizing the need for legal reforms that accommodate scientific advancements.

Despite the advantages offered by DNA testing, there remain sociocultural barriers that affect its acceptance in certain communities. Many individuals still hold onto traditional beliefs about paternity that may conflict with the scientific evidence provided by DNA testing. A study by Abubakar et al. (2023) found that stigma and misconceptions surrounding genetic testing often deter individuals from pursuing DNA tests, even in cases where the outcome could resolve long-standing disputes. The challenge lies in educating the public about the benefits of DNA testing while addressing the cultural sensitivities that surround family and paternity issues.

Moreover, the implications of DNA evidence in paternity disputes extend beyond individual cases to broader societal impacts. When disputes are resolved through DNA testing, it can lead to improved family dynamics and societal stability, as noted by Eze and Nnaji (2024). Furthermore, establishing paternity can have legal ramifications, affecting child support, inheritance rights, and custody arrangements. Therefore, understanding the role of DNA evidence in these disputes is essential not only for the individuals involved but also for the community as a whole.

DNA evidence has emerged as a critical tool in resolving paternity disputes, particularly within the context of the DNA Diagnosis Centre in Plateau State. While the accuracy and objectivity of DNA testing offer significant advantages over traditional methods, societal attitudes and cultural beliefs continue to pose challenges to its widespread acceptance. As legal frameworks evolve to incorporate scientific advancements, further research and public education are necessary to bridge the gap between science and societal understanding, ensuring that DNA evidence can be fully leveraged to resolve paternity disputes effectively.

• Statement of the Problem

Paternity disputes present complex legal and emotional challenges for families, often resulting in significant social and psychological consequences. In many cases, traditional methods of establishing paternity—such as witness testimonies and circumstantial evidence—are inadequate and prone to bias. As a result, many disputes remain unresolved, leading to ongoing conflicts, financial burdens, and detrimental effects on child welfare. This situation underscores the need for reliable, objective means of establishing paternity, with DNA evidence emerging as a promising solution.

In Plateau State, Nigeria, the DNA Diagnosis Centre offers a vital resource for individuals seeking to resolve paternity disputes. However, despite the availability of DNA testing services, public awareness and acceptance remain limited. Many potential users of these services may be unaware of the accuracy and reliability of DNA testing, leading to hesitation in pursuing this scientifically validated option. This gap in understanding presents a significant barrier to the effective utilization of DNA evidence in resolving paternity issues.

Furthermore, cultural beliefs and societal norms surrounding paternity can hinder the acceptance of DNA testing. In many communities, traditional views on family and kinship often take precedence over scientific evidence, resulting in skepticism towards genetic testing. This cultural resistance can prevent individuals from seeking DNA tests, thereby perpetuating unresolved disputes and their associated emotional turmoil. The interplay between cultural attitudes and scientific advancements necessitates a closer examination of how these factors influence the resolution of paternity disputes.

Legal frameworks governing paternity disputes in Nigeria have not kept pace with advancements in DNA technology. While the Nigerian legal system has begun to recognize the value of DNA evidence, implementation remains inconsistent, and many legal practitioners lack the necessary training to effectively incorporate DNA findings into their casework. Consequently, cases may be decided based on outdated practices, undermining the potential for DNA evidence to provide clear and objective resolutions to disputes.

Moreover, the implications of unresolved paternity disputes extend beyond the immediate parties involved. When paternity is contested and not resolved, children often bear the brunt of the conflict, affecting their emotional well-being and sense of identity. Additionally, unresolved disputes can lead to financial instability, particularly concerning child support and inheritance rights. Therefore, addressing these disputes through reliable means such as DNA testing is critical not only for individual cases but also for the broader welfare of children and families within the community.

The role of DNA evidence in resolving paternity disputes in Plateau State is both significant and underutilized. Addressing the gaps in public awareness, cultural acceptance, and legal integration of DNA testing is essential for maximizing its potential benefits. A comprehensive understanding of these challenges is crucial to developing strategies that promote the effective use of DNA evidence, ultimately leading to more equitable and just outcomes in paternity disputes.

• Aim and objectives of the Study

The aim of the study is to examine the DNA evidence and its role in resolving paternity dispute. The specific objectives of the study are:

1. To investigate the accuracy and reliability of DNA evidence in determining paternity.
2. To assess the effectiveness of the DNA Diagnosis Centre in Plateau State in handling paternity dispute cases.
3. To analyze the impact of DNA evidence on legal proceedings related to paternity disputes.
4. To explore the attitudes and perceptions of individuals involved in paternity disputes towards DNA testing.

• Research Questions

The research questions are buttressed below:

1. What is the accuracy and reliability of DNA evidence in determining paternity?
2. How effective is the DNA Diagnosis Centre in Plateau State in handling paternity dispute cases?
3. What is the impact of DNA evidence on legal proceedings related to paternity disputes?
4. What are the attitudes and perceptions of individuals involved in paternity disputes towards DNA testing?

• Research Hypothesis

The hypothetical statement of the study is buttressed below:

Ho: DNA evidence has no significant effect on legal proceedings related to paternity disputes

H1: DNA evidence has significant effect on legal proceedings related to paternity disputes.

• Significance of the Study

The significance of the study on DNA evidence and its role in resolving paternity disputes, particularly focusing on the DNA Diagnosis Centre in Plateau State, cannot be understated. Firstly, this study will contribute to the existing body of knowledge on the accuracy and reliability of DNA evidence in determining paternity. By examining the effectiveness of the DNA Diagnosis Centre in handling paternity dispute cases, this research will provide valuable insights into the practical application of DNA testing in legal proceedings.

Secondly, this study will shed light on the impact of DNA evidence on legal proceedings related to paternity disputes. Understanding how DNA testing influences court decisions and outcomes can have far-reaching implications for the justice system and the individuals involved in such cases. By exploring the attitudes and perceptions of individuals involved in paternity disputes towards DNA testing, this research will provide a comprehensive understanding of the social and emotional aspects of DNA evidence in resolving paternity disputes.

Furthermore, this study will have practical implications for policymakers and legal professionals involved in paternity dispute cases. By identifying the strengths and weaknesses of the DNA Diagnosis Centre in Plateau State, this research can inform strategies for improving the handling of paternity disputes and ensuring fair and accurate outcomes for all parties involved. Additionally, this study can help in developing guidelines and best practices for the use of DNA evidence in legal proceedings, thereby enhancing the overall efficiency and effectiveness of the justice system.

Moreover, this study can have significant implications for individuals and families involved in paternity disputes. By providing insights into the accuracy and reliability of DNA evidence, this research can help individuals make informed decisions about pursuing DNA testing and resolving paternity disputes. Understanding the attitudes and perceptions of individuals towards DNA testing can also help in addressing any misconceptions or concerns they may have, ultimately leading to more positive outcomes for all parties involved.

The significance of this study lies in its potential to improve the accuracy and reliability of DNA evidence in resolving paternity disputes. By examining the role of the DNA Diagnosis Centre in Plateau State and exploring the attitudes and perceptions of individuals involved in such cases, this research can contribute to a better understanding of the impact of DNA evidence on legal proceedings and the overall resolution of paternity disputes.

• Scope of the Study

The study examines DNA evidence and its role in resolving paternity dispute. A  study of DNA Diagnosis Centre in Plateau State

1.8. Operational Definition of Terms

1. DNA: Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) is the hereditary material in all living organisms and many viruses. It carries genetic instructions for growth, development, functioning, and reproduction.
2. Evidence: Evidence refers to information or data that supports or disproves a claim or argument. In a legal context, it can include documents, testimony, physical objects, and scientific findings.
3. Role: The role of something refers to its function or purpose in a particular context. For example, in a legal case, DNA may play a role in establishing identity or biological relationships.
4. Resolving: Resolving means finding a solution to a problem or dispute. In the context of paternity disputes, it refers to the process of determining the biological father of a child.
5. Paternity Dispute: A paternity dispute arises when there is uncertainty or disagreement about who the biological father of a child is. Such disputes can involve legal, emotional, and financial considerations.
6. DNA Diagnosis Centre: A DNA Diagnosis Centre is a facility that conducts DNA testing and analysis. These centers often perform paternity tests, genetic screenings, and other assessments to provide reliable genetic information for various purposes, including legal matters.

Project – DNA evidence and its role in resolving paternity dispute.