12/08/2026
⚖️ WHAT TO DO WHEN YOU RECEIVE A POLICE INVITATION
Receiving a police invitation can understandably cause concern, but an invitation is not, by itself, an indication that you have committed an offence. The important thing is to remain calm, understand the reason for the invitation, and respond appropriately.
Here are some important steps to take:
🔹 Find out why you are being invited. Ask for the reason for the invitation and, where possible, the nature of the complaint or matter being investigated.
🔹 Seek legal advice. Consider consulting a lawyer before attending the station, particularly where the matter may expose you to criminal liability.
🔹 Do not ignore a genuine police invitation. If the invitation is legitimate, obtain appropriate legal advice and respond through the proper channel.
🔹 Know the difference between invitation and arrest. A person who receives an invitation is not necessarily under arrest. However, if you are arrested or detained, specific constitutional and statutory protections apply.
🔹 Know your rights after arrest or detention. Section 35(2) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (as amended) recognises the right of an arrested or detained person to remain silent or avoid answering questions until after consultation with a legal practitioner or another person of their choice.
🔹 The Nigeria Police Act also provides protections. Section 35 of the Nigeria Police Act 2020, as amended, sets out rights of a suspect following arrest, including the right to consult a legal practitioner before making, endorsing or writing a statement or answering questions after arrest.
🔹 Do not sign what you do not understand. Carefully read any statement or document before signing or endorsing it, and seek legal advice where necessary.
KNOW YOUR RIGHTS. PROTECT YOUR INTERESTS. SEEK LEGAL ADVICE.
LAW BRIDGE SOLICITORS
Bridging Law. Building Justice.
Nnanyelugo M. Eze Esq. (LL.B Hons, BL.)
Principal Partner
📍 Enugu, Nigeria
📞 08126536396
This publication is for general legal education and does not constitute legal advice on any specific matter.