Closed-Circuit Telev...

This study investigates the effectiveness of Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV) as a mitigation measure against misappropriation and fraud in selected government agencies in Rivers State, Nigeria. Despite increased investments in surveillance systems across public offices, cases of financial mismanagement, asset diversion, and procedural manipulation remain prevalent. The research adopts a descriptive survey design supported by qualitative insights to assess how CCTV installations influence accountability and transparency in public service operations. A total of 400 respondents were selected using stratified random sampling from staff across five government agencies, including finance, procurement, works, and administrative departments. Primary data were collected through structured questionnaires, key informant interviews, and observation checklists, while secondary data were drawn from audit and administrative records. Descriptive statistics such as frequency and percentage distributions were used to summarize the data, while inferential analyses including chi-square and regression tests were applied to determine the relationship between CCTV usage and incidents of misappropriation and fraud. Findings are expected to reveal that effective CCTV deployment, continuous monitoring, and clear data management policies significantly reduce the occurrence and concealment of fraudulent practices within government offices. However, technical challenges, inadequate maintenance, weak enforcement of surveillance policies, and limited staff awareness were identified as major constraints. The study concludes that CCTV systems, when properly implemented and integrated with institutional accountability frameworks, can serve as a vital tool for enhancing transparency and curbing financial malpractice in the public sector. It recommends continuous training of monitoring personnel, periodic evaluation of surveillance coverage, and stricter policy enforcement to ensure sustainable use of CCTV technology in safeguarding public resources.