‘419’ is not Just Street Slang but a Criminal Code Section

Confidence Aribibia

Every single time you say “419”, you are actually referring to a real section of the law. Yes Section 419 of the Criminal Code and this is what the law provides in substance: Any person who by false pretence, and with intent to defraud, obtains from another person anything capable of being stolen, or induces another person to deliver property to any person, commits an offence.

That is where the popular expression “419” came from.

So when someone says: “Ah! That one na 419”

What they are literally saying is: “That person is involved in obtaining by false pretence.”

In simple terms, it means deceiving somebody, lying to them, or creating a fake story just to collect their money, property, or valuables.

For example: Pretending to be a rich investor, a lover abroad, or a fake businessman just to trick someone into sending money.

That is the kind of conduct Section 419 was created to punish.

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Over time, the section became so famous that the number itself turned into a nickname for fraud across Nigeria and even internationally. Imagine a whole section of the law becoming everyday street language.

Many people use the word every day without even knowing they are indirectly citing criminal law.

Now be honest

Before today, did you actually know “419” came directly from Section 419 of the Criminal Code?

©️Confidence Aribibia, wrote in from Lagos