A study of Fingerprints in Delta State, Nigeria

Utilizing prints as a means of identification is one of the widespread methods in forensic anthropology and the most popular is fingerprint. The study aimed at investigating fingerprint patterns of individuals from Delta State, Nigeria. Participants were 85males and females each respectively. Fingerprints were taken with a Hewlett placard G4010 fingerprint scanner. Chi-square test established sex associated differences while Mood median test determined the laterality of friction ridges. All inferential statistical analysis was carried out at 95% confidence level, with P<0.05 as the significant value. The trend was UL>W>A>RL (63.94%, 26.29%, 8.18%,1.59%) for the studied population. Findings showed that the most predominant pattern among the males was the whorls while ulnar loop and arches were frequently observed among the females. Fingerprints showed dimorphism for R3D and L2D (÷2 = 12.931, [df=3] 10.181 ; P= 0.005, 0.017). Ridge counts also revealed sexual dimorphism for R2D, 3D, 4D, TR and L1D, 2D, 5D, TL; TFRC (÷2 = 6.815, 17.191, 4.628, 7.625; P=0.009, 0.001, 0.031, 0.006)(4.012, 11.390, 5.297, 4.618; 3.976; [df=1] P= 0.045, 0.001, 0.021, 0.032; 0.046). We observed peculiarities in fingerprint patterns among individuals from Delta State while R3D and L2D can be used as a tool in estimating sex for forensic purpose.

Key Words: Fingerprints, Patterns, Delta State, Nigeria