Know Your Right.
An arrest can be one of the most stressful experiences anyone can face.
In that moment, many people panic, become emotional, or try to explain themselves. Unfortunately, saying the wrong thing can complicate your case or provide evidence that may later be used against you in court.
The law gives every arrested person certain rights, including the right to remain silent and the right to consult a lawyer before making a statement.
Knowing these rights can protect you from making costly mistakes.
Here are 20 things you should never say when you are arrested and why:
1. “I did it.”
Never admit guilt simply because you are frightened or pressured. An admission can become powerful evidence against you. Speak to a lawyer before making any statement.
2. “I was only joking.”
Many criminal offences are judged by their circumstances, not by your intention to make people laugh. What you consider a joke may be interpreted differently by investigators or the court.
3. “My friend planned everything.”
Trying to shift the blame to someone else may still place you at the centre of the alleged offence. You could end up implicating yourself.
4. “I know a senator, commissioner or another powerful person.”
Using the names of influential people rarely changes the legal process.
Instead, it may create unnecessary tension with law enforcement officers.
5. “Do you know who I am?”
This statement often sounds confrontational and does not give you any legal advantage. Your rights are protected by law regardless of your status.
6. “I’ll deal with you later.”
Threatening a police officer can create additional legal problems and may even result in further allegations against you.
7. “Everybody does it.”
The fact that others may have committed a similar act is not a legal defence. Each case is determined on its own facts.
8. “I wasn’t there.”
If you genuinely have an alibi, discuss it first with your lawyer before making a formal statement. A poorly explained alibi can raise unnecessary questions.
9. “I have money. How much do you want?”
Offering money to influence a police officer amounts to attempted bribery, which is itself a criminal offence.
10. “I can explain everything.”
People often talk too much because they believe they can clear up a misunderstanding. Instead, they may unknowingly provide information that weakens their defence.
11. “It’s not what it looks like.”
This emotional response rarely helps. Save your explanation until you have received legal advice.
12. “I’ll sue all of you.”
If your rights are violated, you can seek legal redress through the courts. Making threats during an arrest is unlikely to improve your situation.
13. “Who told you?”
Asking this question may unintentionally suggest that there is something to hide or that you know what the police are investigating.
14. “I was drunk. I don’t remember.”
Being intoxicated is generally not a complete defence under Nigerian law and may even strengthen certain allegations.
15. “Just write anything. I’ll sign it.”
Never sign a statement without reading and fully understanding it. If you disagree with any part of it, say so before signing or seek legal advice.
16. “I have nothing to hide.”
Some people say this and then begin narrating every detail of events, including information the police did not ask for. Avoid volunteering unnecessary information.
17. “Can we settle this here?”
Attempting to settle an arrest with money or gifts may amount to bribery or corruption and could worsen your legal position.
18. Insulting or abusing the police.
Even if you believe you have been treated unfairly, remain calm and respectful. Angry exchanges rarely help your case.
19. Resisting arrest or encouraging others to interfere.
Do not physically resist lawful arrest. If you believe the arrest is unlawful, challenge it later through your lawyer and the courts.
20. Making false statements or false confessions.
Never lie to investigators and never confess to an offence you did not commit. A false statement can seriously damage your defence.
What the Law Says
Section 35(2) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended) provides:
“Any person who is arrested or detained shall have the right to remain silent or avoid answering any question until after consultation with a legal practitioner or any other person of his own choice.”
The Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA), 2015 also contains provisions aimed at protecting the rights of arrested persons, including safeguards relating to the recording of statements and access to legal representation.
What Should You Say Instead?
If you are arrested, remain calm and respectful. You can simply say:
“I am exercising my constitutional right to remain silent until I have consulted my lawyer.”
This is a lawful response. It does not imply guilt. It simply means you are choosing to exercise a right guaranteed by the Nigerian Constitution.
Final Note
Knowing your rights does not mean obstructing the police or refusing to cooperate with lawful procedures.
It means understanding that the Constitution protects every citizen and that you should not unknowingly surrender those protections through careless words.
An informed citizen is better equipped to protect both their liberty and their legal rights.
At Headlineswave.ng, we are committed to verified, accurate and responsible journalism.
Every Know Your Right publication is carefully prepared to educate the public using applicable Nigerian laws and credible legal sources.
This article is for public legal awareness and should not be taken as a substitute for professional legal advice.
