Paternity fraud on the rise in Nigeria, most DNA tests done in South West
By Jeph Ajobaju, Chief Copy Editor
More than one in four men tested for paternity between July 2023 and June 2024 turned out not to be the biological fathers of the children given to them by the women involved, according to a report by Smart DNA, a testing centre in Lagos.
The report highlights other findings that shed light on societal dynamics, economic factors, and changing family structures in Nigeria, with the reality that paternity uncertainty remains high.
Smart DNA said 27 per cent of paternity tests it conducted came back negative, showing that more than one in four men tested are not the biological fathers of the children in question.
The report also found that Immigration Tests surged, confirming that the “japa” trend is high, with DNA tests for immigration growing more than any other test type.
Equally noted is a growing number of parents with dual citizenship processing paperwork for their children’s emigration.
Most DNA tests done in South West
Lagos dominates the states in DNA testing, a reflection of economic disparity.
The report said 73.1 per cent of all DNA tests were conducted in Lagos, with Lagos Mainland scoring 67.5 per cent and Lagos Island on 32.5 per cent.
This concentration highlights the economic divide within Lagos and across Nigeria, raising questions about access to DNA testing in other parts of the country.
The Yoruba ethnic group accounts for 53 per cent of tests, Igbo 31.3 per cent, and Hausa 1.20 per cent.
“These findings offer a unique window into the changing dynamics of Nigerian families and society,” said Smart DNA Operations Manager Elizabeth Digia, per reporting by the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN).
“The high rate of negative paternity tests and the surge in immigration-related testing are particularly noteworthy.
“They reflect broader societal trends that merit further discussion and research.
“The concentration of testing in Lagos also raises important questions about accessibility and awareness of DNA testing services across Nigeria.
“As a company, we’re committed to expanding access to our services nationwide while maintaining the highest standards of accuracy and confidentiality,’’ she said.
Most of the children tested were aged 0-five (54.0 per cent), suggesting a preference for early paternity confirmation.
Men aged 41+ (45.6 per cent) and 31-40 (37.0 per cent) were most likely to request tests, reflecting economic capabilities or increased paternity concerns in older men.
The report disclosed a slight gender bias in Child Testing with more male children (52.8 per cent) tested than female children (47.2 per cent), showing likely cultural preference for confirming paternity of male offspring.
Peace of mind dominates reasons for DNA testings as the majority of tests (85.9 per cent) were conducted for ‘Peace of Mind’, rather than legal motivations.
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