READ BEFORE YOU AGREE TO BE A SURETY

[Giwa Ihesha]

5 QUESTIONS TO ASK BEFORE YOU AGREE TO BE A SURETY.

In Nigeria, many people walk into police stations to “just help someone”… and walk out with a problem they never bargained for.

Standing as a surety is not a favor. It is a legal responsibility.
If anything goes wrong, you may be the one answering questions.

Before you sign that paper, ask yourself these 5 honest questions:

What exactly is the offence?
Don’t just hear “na small issue”.

Is it stealing? fraud? assault?
Because the seriousness of the offence determines the risk you are taking.

Example:
You think it’s a minor misunderstanding… next thing you hear is “fraud case”.
If that person disappears, you’re now tied to a serious criminal matter.

Can I produce this person anytime?
This is the main job of a surety.

Police can call you ANYTIME to produce that person.

Example:
You stood for your friend. He travels to another state without telling you.
Police call you: “Bring him now.”
You start running up and down… stress, embarrassment, and possible detention.

Do I truly trust this person?
Be honest with yourself — not emotional.

Knowing someone is not the same as trusting them.

Example:
“That’s my guy!”
But when problem comes, your “guy” switches off phone and disappears.
Now guess who police will hold?
YOU.

What happens if they run?

Simple truth: YOU become the target.
You may be detained
You may be pressured to produce them
You may even have to trace them yourself

Example:
He runs. Police pick you up instead.
Now you’re explaining what you don’t even understand.

Am I truly ready for this risk?
This is where many people get it wrong.

Don’t let pity or “abeg help me” push you into trouble.
Example:
You just wanted to help…
Now you’re missing work, spending money, and dealing with police stress.

FINAL TRUTH:
Standing as a surety is not kindness — it is commitment.

If you’re not ready for the responsibility, don’t sign anything.

Many Nigerians don’t know this and fall into trouble daily

.Don’t keep this to yourself — someone close to you might be one signature away from serious trouble.

Share this post now to educate others

And if you’ve ever been a surety before, drop your experience in the comments — your story could save someone!

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