Lagos State Governor, Akinwunmi Ambode, says the resolution of crimes, paternity and other security issues will be easier with the inauguration of the Lagos State DNA and Forensic Centre.

At an event to mark the inauguration of the centre on Wednesday, Ambode said using technology to solve crime was the modern trend, adding that the opening of the centre located on Odunlami Street on Lagos Island, was a manifestation of his policy to make the state safe for residents and investors.

He said, “From the domestic front to our places of work, the use of technology has become a way of life. That is why we approve this project, which is an effective way of ensuring quick dispensation of justice.”

The governor also stated that the need for good governance and sustainability of investment necessitated the heavy investment in security.

Ambode said, “The DNA centre has the capacity to provide the police, prosecutors, defence attorneys and private citizens with crime scene processing, serological screening for blood and semen, DNA analysis of bone, teeth and hair; maternal and paternal relationship DNA analysis, paternal and maternal ancestry DNA analysis.”

He said the government would soon build the centre’s capacity in the areas of toxicology, trace evidence and controlled substance analysis, as well as fingerprint and latent prints, among others.

The Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Adeniji Kazeem, said the centre would also assist the state to have a reliable DNA database.

The Consul General of the United States Embassy in Lagos, Mr. John Bray, said the centre would enhance justice and progress, adding that it was the first in West Africa.

The state police command’s Acting Commissioner of Police, Mr. Imohimi Edgal, said the police in the state would reopen unresolved high-profile cases frustrated by lack of solid evidence.

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