A lot of people walk into a police station thinking the best thing to do is explain everything immediately. Out of fear, they start talking and trying to clear their name.
The problem is this. At a police station, every word can become part of your official statement and once it is written down, it can be used as evidence.
If you ever find yourself in that situation in Nigeria, here are a few things you should avoid saying and what to say instead.
1. “Let me explain everything.”
Many people say this hoping the police will understand their side of the story but once you begin explaining, your words can be written in your statement and later used against you.
What the law says:
Section 35(2) of the 1999 Constitution gives you the right to remain silent.
What to say instead:
“I would prefer to speak after consulting my lawyer.”
2. “I was just there.”
People often say this to show they were not involved in anything.
The issue is that you have now placed yourself at the scene, and that alone can become circumstantial evidence.
What the law says:
Under the Evidence Act 2011, presence at a scene can be considered circumstantial evidence.
What to say instead:
“I choose to remain silent until I receive legal advice.”
3. “I know my rights.”
It sounds strong, but saying this in an aggressive way can easily turn the situation into an ego battle with the officers.
Your rights are protected by law. You do not need to argue about them.
What to say instead (calmly):
“I would like to exercise my right to speak to a lawyer.”
4. “This is a civil matter. The police cannot interfere.”
Many Nigerians say this when they believe the issue is a landlord dispute, debt issue, or business disagreement.
While the police should not enforce civil disputes, they are still allowed to investigate first if a complaint is made.
Arguing about jurisdiction rarely helps.
What to say instead:
“I am willing to cooperate through my lawyer.”
5. “Let me settle it.”
People say this hoping the matter will end quickly.
But in many cases, the police may interpret settlement talk as an admission of guilt.
What the law says:
Under the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA) 2015, confessions must be clear and voluntary. Casual statements can still be interpreted as admissions.
What to say instead:
“I deny the allegation.”
At a police station in Nigeria, silence is often safer than panic talking.
You have the right to:
• Remain silent
• Speak to a lawyer
• Avoid signing statements you do not understand
Knowing these basic things can protect you from turning a stressful situation into a much bigger problem.
