A Young Lawyer’s Guide to Navigating Police Stations in Nigeria

Introduction

The excitement of being called to the Bar marks a major milestone in a lawyer’s life. But after the celebrations and ceremonies fade, young lawyers quickly discover the realities of legal practice. While you now have the knowledge of the law and a license to practice, building credibility, finding clients, and gaining courtroom experience takes time, mentorship, and resilience.

For many new lawyers employed in law firms, the first real assignment may not be drafting motions or addressing the court. Instead, you are often sent to represent clients at police stations or law enforcement agencies such as the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), or even the Department of State Services (DSS).

This can be a daunting experience. Unlike courtrooms, which are governed by clear procedure and the rule of law, police stations function under a strict internal culture of hierarchy, command, and discipline. Here, authority and discretion often dictate decisions more than legal technicalities.

Understanding how to effectively navigate this environment is critical. Your role is not to overpower the system but to strategically protect your client’s rights within it.

Objectives of a Lawyer at the Police Station

When handling cases at a police station, your primary goals include:

1. Information Gathering

   • Understand the allegations against your client.

   • Collect details that will guide your legal strategy.

   • Evaluate whether the complaint has merit or is frivolous.

2. Protecting Against Self-Incrimination

   • Advise your client to avoid making statements that could strengthen the prosecution’s case.

   • Intervene tactfully if questioning veers into dangerous territory.

3. Advocacy and Negotiation

   • Present your client’s case based on facts and the law.

   • Attempt to persuade the police to resolve the matter without pressing charges, especially for civil disputes disguised as criminal complaints.

4. Seeking Amicable Resolutions

   • Explore settlements between complainant and accused where appropriate.

   • Where disputes are civil in nature (e.g., debt recovery), emphasize the inappropriateness of criminal proceedings.

5. Positioning for Trial (if unavoidable)

   • If the case must proceed, ensure that the groundwork favors your client, including lawful bail, proper documentation, and avoidance of procedural errors by law enforcement.

This role demands a mix of legal expertise, negotiation skills, and emotional intelligence, alongside courage and integrity.

Practical Guide: The DO’s

1. Schedule Your Visit in Advance

• Always contact the Investigating Police Officer (IPO) or Divisional Police Officer (DPO) beforehand.

• This avoids unnecessary waiting and ensures cooperation.

• Example: Arriving unannounced can result in being ignored or deliberately delayed. Booking ahead shows respect for their process.

2. Maintain Polite and Calm Communication

• Police officers are authority figures within their stations.

• Even if you know the law better, remain respectful.

• Speak clearly, calmly, and avoid raising your voice.

• Tip: If an officer provokes you, do not react emotionally. Instead, redirect focus to your client’s case.

3. Dress Professionally

• Your appearance is your first argument.

• A well-dressed lawyer commands respect from officers and reassures clients.

• Remember: “You will be addressed the way you dress.”

4. Carry All Relevant Documents and Tools

Create a client-specific file containing:

• The Police Act & Criminal Code/Penal Code (depending on jurisdiction).

• Copies of relevant statutes, case law notes, or circulars.

• Notebooks and letterheads for taking minutes or submitting formal requests.

• Proof of identity, business cards, and your Call to Bar certificate (if needed).

• Mobile phone (fully charged).

• Letter of authorization/representation from client.

• Emergency contacts (senior counsel or supportive colleagues).

Being prepared boosts your confidence and reduces vulnerability to intimidation.

5. Document Everything

• Note the names and ranks of officers involved.

• Record times of meetings, instructions given, and responses received.

• These notes may prove crucial if you need to escalate the matter to court.

Practical Guide: The DON’Ts

1. Do Not Assert Legal Authority Aggressively

• Courts respect technicalities, but police stations operate differently.

• Over-emphasizing legal jargon may alienate officers.

• Example: Quoting sections of the Constitution repeatedly may be seen as arrogance. Use persuasion instead of confrontation.

2. Avoid Threats or Loud Arguments

• Statements like “I’ll sue you for Fundamental Rights violation” rarely work in the heat of the moment.

• Threatening to involve the media can worsen matters.

• Instead, calmly state your client’s rights and document violations for future action.

3. Don’t Become an Accessory to a Crime

• Be vigilant. Some clients may attempt to use you to pass coded messages to accomplices.

• Innocent-looking notes could be tools for obstruction of justice.

• If unsure, refuse politely and explain professional risks involved.

4. Do Not Overemphasize Legal Technicalities on the Spot

• Police officers may lack patience for long arguments.

• Save detailed submissions for court.

• If the police unlawfully detain your client, file for enforcement of Fundamental Rights. This compels lawful action.

5. Never Lose Your Temper

• Police stations are stressful and sometimes hostile environments.

• Losing your cool can put your client in more danger.

• Always keep your composure, even if officers attempt intimidation.

Key Skills for Success at Police Stations

• Knowledge of Criminal Law & Procedure – You must know the provisions of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA 2015), the Evidence Act, and police powers.

• Negotiation Skills – Learn to bargain tactfully for bail, charge withdrawal, or settlement.

• Emotional Intelligence – Manage your client’s fear and anxiety while remaining composed under police pressure.

• Courage – Stand firm when officers overstep their powers.

• Professional Ethics – Uphold integrity at all times, even when tempted by shortcuts or bribes.

Conclusion

A lawyer’s role at the police station is not to dominate but to navigate effectively. Success requires respecting the environment, exercising patience, and balancing advocacy with diplomacy.

Remember:

• The police have a difficult job, often under pressure. A courteous lawyer earns cooperation faster.

• Your client depends on your judgment, composure, and professionalism.

• The ultimate goal is to advance your client’s case without worsening their situation—or compromising your career.

In short, at the police station, the lawyer’s greatest weapons are preparation, patience, and persuasion, not just knowledge of the law.

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