The security expert warns that keeping unfamiliar or suspicious items for friends without verifying their source or contents could expose unsuspecting individuals to criminal investigations and legal consequences.
Security expert Moruf Yusuf, popularly known as Ojogbon, has advised Nigerians to exercise caution before accepting items from friends or acquaintances for safekeeping, warning that such requests could expose them to serious security and legal risks.
Yusuf gave the advice in the 202nd edition of his security awareness series, The Secure Mind, titled “Ask Questions and Involve Professionals When Friends Give You Items to Keep.”
He explained that although friendship and trust are important aspects of human relationships, individuals must not allow personal relationships to override their judgment when handling unfamiliar items.
According to him, accepting items without knowing their origin or contents could unknowingly make someone a custodian of objects connected to criminal activities.He warned that some items handed over for safekeeping could later emerge as exhibits or evidence in criminal investigations, potentially placing the person keeping them under suspicion or exposing them to legal complications.
Yusuf noted that a friend requesting assistance may not necessarily understand the security implications of transferring such items to another person. He therefore urged individuals to take responsibility for their safety by asking relevant questions and establishing the source and contents of anything they are asked to keep.
He further advised that suspicious situations should not be handled casually, recommending that individuals seek guidance from relevant professionals where necessary rather than relying solely on personal relationships.
Emphasising the importance of security consciousness, he stated that friendship should never become a reason for compromising personal safety or becoming an unwilling participant in another person’s wrongdoing.
In his words: “It is not a good habit to assist friends or others in keeping items whose sources and contents are unknown.”
The security awareness advocate encouraged members of the public to remain thoughtful, cautious and alert in their everyday interactions, particularly when dealing with requests that involve keeping personal belongings or unfamiliar materials.
Yusuf, who holds professional affiliations including ANIPR, MISN, FCAI, FIIM and MSPSP, continues to use The Secure Mind series to promote security awareness and responsible decision-making among members of the public.
He concluded with his recurring message: “Just be good. Reflect. Stay alert.”
Author: Moruf Yusuf (Ojogbon) Date: Sunday, November 1, 2026 Series: The Secure Mind – Daily Security Tips That Train Your Thinking, Series #202.


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