A Nigerian lawyer, identified as @hassan_buhari_esq on TikTok, has explained the legal implications of being hit with a multimillion-naira lawsuit without having the funds to pay. He stated how the lawsuit debt can follow an individual for life unless a settlement or other processes are initiated.
Debt Does Not Disappear
The lawyer noted that if a person cannot afford to pay a judgement debt, the liability does not simply vanish. He said: "If they've gone after your money, your assets, and everything you have, and the money is still not sufficient, then that particular debt will keep following you forever. It will not just disappear. If your net worth increases—your net worth, rather, if it increases in the future—or your money increases, or your source of income increases, the person you are owing money can still go back to the court and get enforcement."
Interest Accumulates
He further explained that interest continues to accumulate on unpaid balances, though parties often negotiate settlements like accepting N20 million instead of N500 million. He also warned against bankruptcy, describing it as a terrible legal process where all remaining resources are pooled and shared among creditors.
Advice for Owners of Expensive Assets
Addressing owners of expensive properties, the legal practitioner advised against confronting everyday drivers recklessly under the assumption that court damages will fully restore their wealth. @hassan_buhari_esq said: "Most people will be driving expensive cars on the road and they will be like, 'Hit me and see, hit me and see, jam my car and see.' Oh guy, if you jam me, the highest you can get from him is to sell his car and his house that he is building. That's all. He cannot even repair your car."
Reactions to the Lawyer's Advice
Legit.ng has compiled some reactions to the lawyer's post. @ŘUSTY?? said: "No worry my net worth no go increase." @Varimax Interiors said: "Many judgement is based on net worth sha." @_Xther✨☘️ commented: "God no allow me enter trouble oo. ??"
