By Ekuson Nw’Ogbunka
Abuja
Legal practitioner Naomi Umeje Esq. has warned Nigerians that careless words can land anyone in court. In her analysis “10 Common Statements You Should Never Make Carelessly,” she breaks down how anger, jokes, or social media posts can create legal liability. Her message is simple: words are powerful, and proof is the difference between free speech and defamation.
Umeje opens with “I will deal with you,” noting that in a conflict situation such a statement can be interpreted as a threat. Nigerian law treats threats seriously, and context does not excuse intent when fear or intimidation is created.
The second statement, “You will not leave here alive,” carries even higher risk. She explains that even if said in anger, it can create serious legal problems. If harm later comes to that person, the speaker may be required to account for their words to law enforcement.
“Iknow people who can make you disappear” is listed as the third dangerous phrase. Umeje points out that threatening a person’s life is a crime in Nigeria. Making such a claim can expose the speaker to criminal liability for intimidation or conspiracy, regardless of whether the threat is carried out.
The fourth statement, “I will make you lose your job,” becomes actionable when repeated and combined with harassment, blackmail, or intimidation. Umeje argues that labor and criminal laws can both apply when threats target a person’s livelihood.
Under “That child is not his,” Umeje invokes a basic legal principle: he who alleges must prove. She warns that accusing someone of paternity without evidence can lead to a defamation suit. She also debunks the myth that adding “allegedly” to a social media post absolves the poster from liability.
“She slept her way to the top” is flagged as defamatory. Such statements, she says, have the tendency to lower a person in the estimation of the public. The law recognizes this as injury to reputation, and an action for defamation may be instituted against the maker.
The seventh phrase, “He is a ritualist,” is described as especially risky. Accusing someone of criminal or ritual acts without evidence exposes the speaker to both civil defamation claims and possible criminal charges for false accusation.
“That business is a scam” makes the list because commercial reputation is protected by law. Umeje advises that before making such claims publicly, one must be sure the facts are backed by verifiable evidence, or risk a lawsuit for injurious falsehood.
The ninth statement, “She stole the iphone at the party,” illustrates accusations of theft. Umeje stresses that alleging theft without proof can lead to legal trouble. Police and courts will require evidence, and false allegations can attract damages.
She concludes with “Everybody knows he is a criminal,” warning that spreading rumors offers no legal protection if the statement is false. Her final advice is practical: before you speak or post about someone, ask “Can I prove it?” If the answer is no, refrain. As she puts it, Ignorantia juris non excusat ignorance of the law is no excuse.
