Real-Time Internal Control Dynamics and Fraud Prevention: A Framework for Strengthening Financial Integrity in Public Sectors

Abstract

The evolving fraud dynamics in the public sector of Nigeria, despite existing control mechanisms, motivate the investigation of real-time internal control practices to mitigate fraud. This study examines how authorisation, biometric authentication, periodic checks, and information communication and technology oversight structures contribute to mitigating fraud within the Nigerian public sector. The study adopts a survey design and data were collected through structured questionnaires administered to 163 purposively selected staff members of Ekiti State Internal Revenue Service. Descriptive and inferential statistics were employed to analyse responses, while a modified econometric model was used to evaluate the impact of the variables on fraud prevention outcomes. The results indicate that real-time authorisation effectively prevents unauthorised activities, enhances compliance, and strengthens fraud prevention. Similarly, periodic checks promote instant detection of irregularities, ensuring continuous oversight and improved fraud prevention. While biometric activities like fingerprint scanning, facial recognition, and iris detection are seen as beneficial, their direct impact on strengthening accountability and traceability in the studied context was not evident. The study concludes that well-designed internal-control policies and procedures are crucial in deterring financial misconduct in the Nigerian public sector. Recommendations include implementing more stringent authorisation layers and tightening biometric verification to complement internal control measures.