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Ten things you should never say in a police statement or custody.

A lot of Nigerians don’t know that the moment you enter a police station, you’re already in a legal environment, not a family meeting. Every word you say can be used against you in court, even if you didn’t mean it that way.

That’s why you must think before you write or speak.

Here are 10 things you should NEVER say in a police statement or when you are in their custody: 👇🏽

1. “We’ve settled it already.”
That one sounds peaceful, but it can sound like an admission of guilt that you compensated the victim. In law, that can be interpreted as accepting responsibility. Keep that kind of talk outside the statement.

2. “Na joke I dey joke.”
The police station is not your WhatsApp group. 🤦🏽‍♀️ Sarcasm, jokes, or street slang can be misinterpreted on record. Once written, it becomes official evidence, not vibes.

3. “Go and ask them, they know me.”
This may look harmless, but it sounds like an attempt to influence or name-drop. That can make you look suspicious or arrogant in front of the authorities. Stick to facts, not reputation.

4. “You people can do whatever you like.”
My brother, my sister, that one is verbal su***de. 😭 It can be recorded as resistance, defiance, or obstruction of justice. Even if you’re angry or frustrated, control your mouth. Respectful silence is better than proud regret.

5. “I was there but I didn’t do anything.”
That single line can turn you from a witness to a suspect. You’ve just admitted presence at the crime scene. Lawyers call it an implicating admission. Say less, explain carefully, or you’ll be explaining for years.

6. “It was just a small fight.”
That “small fight” could legally be assault or affray, depending on the injury or damage caused. Never downplay incidents the law doesn’t understand “small.”

7. “They told me to help them carry it.”
Carry what? 🤨 You’ve just admitted to handling stolen property or aiding a crime. Even if you thought it was harmless, that sentence can trap you.

8. “I don’t even know what I signed.”
That’s a dangerous statement. It makes your previous confession look voluntary and valid. In court, ignorance is not an excuse. Always read before signing and if you don’t understand, ask your lawyer.

9. “I think it happened like that.”
Never guess or assume. Police statements are not for imagination or guesswork. If you’re not sure, say “I’m not certain” or “I can’t confirm that.” Don’t fill in blanks for them.

10. “I don’t want lawyer, I’ll just explain.”
Big mistake! You just waived your right to legal representation. Anything you say afterward can and will be used against you. Always insist on having your lawyer present before saying or signing anything.

Final Word 💡:
A police station is not a place to freestyle or “gist.” It’s a legal ground. Once you write or say something, it becomes evidence and evidence doesn’t forget.

If you ever find yourself there, ask to speak with your lawyer before making any statement. That’s your right, not a privilege.

One wisdom saying goes this 👇👇
👉🏽 The mouth that talks carelessly inside police station will explain tire in a court.

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