‘You Can Run, But You Can’t Hide’: Mbah Warns Criminals in Enugu

Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State has declared that criminals now have nowhere to hide in the state, following the inauguration of a state-of-the-art Centre for DNA Forensics and Criminal Investigation (CeDFoCI) aimed at strengthening crime detection and prosecution.

Speaking during the commissioning of the facility at Godfrey Okoye University, Ugwuomu, Nike, Enugu, on Thursday, Mbah said the centre would significantly enhance the state’s capacity to investigate crimes, track offenders, and support law enforcement agencies with scientific evidence.

The forensic centre is a collaborative initiative involving the Enugu State Government, Godfrey Okoye University, and the Nigeria DNA Learning Centre.

According to the governor, the project represents one of the most strategic investments in Enugu’s security architecture and aligns with his administration’s Citizens’ Charter agenda.

“None of our developmental ambitions can be achieved without security. While we have made considerable progress in reducing crime, there is still more work to be done. That is why we continue to invest, innovate, and strengthen the systems that keep our people safe,” Mbah stated.

He noted that the new facility would enable authorities to gather forensic evidence from crime scenes, identify suspects, and ensure successful prosecution of offenders.

“The centre strengthens our ability to investigate crime, track criminals, support law enforcement, and ensure that those who threaten the peace of our communities have fewer places to hide.

“To criminals, I say this: every crime scene leaves a trace, and we now have the capacity to track that trace and use it as evidence against you.

“For too long, many crimes went unresolved because the necessary tools were unavailable. Now they exist. If you intend to harm our people, prey on our children, or threaten our communities, understand that the state now possesses capabilities that did not previously exist.

“Enugu is open to investors, innovators, and those who want to build and contribute. But for those who seek to undermine the peace and security of our people, the message is simple: you can run, but you cannot hide,” he warned.

The Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, described the establishment of the centre as a major step toward modernising Nigeria’s criminal justice system.

According to him, the facility places Enugu and Nigeria among jurisdictions that have successfully integrated forensic science into their security and justice frameworks.

Also speaking, the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, and the Vice-Chancellor of Godfrey Okoye University, Prof. Christian Anieke, commended the state government for prioritising security and justice reforms.

Founding Director and Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Nigeria DNA Learning Centre, Prof. George Ude, said the institution would help ensure criminal investigations are guided by scientific evidence while providing training opportunities for law enforcement officers, forensic scientists, medical professionals, researchers, and students.

He added that the centre would also support research in forensic genetics, molecular biology, and bioinformatics, while assisting courts with reliable and scientifically defensible evidence.

In his goodwill message, the Catholic Bishop of Enugu Diocese, Calistus Onaga, represented by Rev. Fr. Victor Eze, praised the partnership between the state government and the university, stressing that nation-building requires collective efforts beyond government institutions.

The commissioning of the forensic centre is expected to boost crime investigation capabilities in Enugu State and strengthen efforts to deliver justice through science-based evidence.