By Passman Akpos
As 2026 draws closer, a viral advisory circulating across Nigerian social media—credited to The People Parliament—is sparking nationwide conversation over everyday actions that could unexpectedly lead to legal trouble.
The message, which has gathered massive traction for its mix of humor, blunt warnings, and street-wise legal insight, urges Nigerians to be far more cautious in their daily interactions to avoid becoming “regular visitors” in courtrooms or, worse, spending time in prison.
In the advisory, citizens are warned about 12 common but risky behaviors that could land them in trouble. Top on the list is the increasingly dangerous act of giving free rides to strangers. The group warns that unsuspecting drivers could be implicated in criminal setups, including situations where a passenger may die in transit—forcing the driver to “explain tire” in court.
The message also cautions against casual medical advice to sick neighbors, reminding Nigerians that recommending medication without a licence can attract liability if anything goes wrong. Similarly, it advises households to stop serving home-cooked meals to visitors and instead offer sealed drinks, citing cases where poisoning incidents link back to the wrong hosts.
In a blend of humor and caution, the advisory also highlights risky sexual behaviors—such as engaging in strenuous intimacy with non-spousal partners—as potential legal hazards if health complications arise. Men are further urged to confirm the age of any romantic partner through a birth certificate to avoid accidental involvement with minors.
Other warnings include avoiding physical confrontation, refusing to discipline other people’s children, reconsidering the purchase of traceable second-hand items, and steering clear of issuing verbal threats—since any subsequent misfortune could be tied back to the issuer.
The message ends on a promotional yet tongue-in-cheek note, encouraging Nigerians to buy one of the group’s e-books “to avoid ignorance of the law,” with contact details provided for purchase.
Legal analysts say that while some of the warnings may appear exaggerated or humorous, most highlight genuine legal risks that many people overlook. The viral advisory has become a reflection of rising public anxiety around wrongful accusations, sudden legal entanglements, and a justice system that many citizens fear can easily be weaponized.
As 2026 approaches, the “People Parliament” insists the goal is simple: “Ignorance of the law is no excuse.”
