JUST ONE WRONG STATEMENT

 

No one plans to end up in a police station, but things happen.

One could simply be at the wrong place at the wrong time, witness a crime, be involved in a road accident or even get falsely accused. In such cases, a police statement becomes necessary, even if when completely innocent. Even reporting a stolen phone, being a good Samaritan or standing up for someone in danger could land you in a situation where the police need your written account.

So, while it is wise to avoid trouble, it is wiser to stay informed.  In Nigeria and most parts of the world, once you step into a police station, you’ve entered a legal environment. Countless citizens unknowingly incriminate themselves simply by being “honest” or “cooperative” without understanding the legal weight of their words. Your statement can either protect you or implicate you.

Here are 5 Things you should never say in a Police statement:

1. I was there but I didn’t do anything.

That sentence sounds harmless, even innocent. But legally, you have placed yourself at the crime scene. This is called “an implicating admission”. It could move you from a potential witness to a prime suspect.

2. It was just a little fight.  

What you call “little” may legally qualify as assault or affray. Downplaying a situation can work against you. Stick to facts, not personal interpretations.

3. “They told me to help them carry it.” 

Carry what? This could imply you were knowingly handling stolen goods or acting as an accomplice, even if you didn’t realise it at the time.

4. “I don’t even know what I signed.”

Never sign what you don’t understand. This statement alone could be used to prove you voluntarily confessed, and courts may not excuse your ignorance.

5. Guessing or assuming.

If you are unsure, say so. Use phrases like “I cannot confirm” or “I’m not certain.” Never attempt to fill in gaps for the police, you could accidentally fabricate or admit to something false.

The police station is not the place to tell stories or speculate. It’s a legal arena. And in that arena, you have a constitutional right to request your lawyer before making any statement. Exercise that right.

Because, as we say in street wisdom:  

“The mouth that talks carelessly at the police station might keep explaining endlessly in court.”

 Legal awareness is not just for legal practitioners, it is survival knowledge for every citizen.

Stay informed. Stay protected.