1. It was raining.

2. There was traffic hold-up.

3. I needed to take my breakfast.

4. Mud water splashed on my cloth and I had to go back home to redress.

5. I didn't know time has run out like this.

6. I m coming late so that I will close late.

All of the explanations above piss off employers especially if you don't first apologise for your coming late to office.

But you should rather say these:

- If you are a doctor: there was an emergency which I had to stop over to save life

- A marketer: I had to round off a deal with a client this morning

-A Banker: there was an enquiry I had to clear up briefly

- A police officer: I made an arrest Sir but the man escaped through the back door because I was alone.

- A Sales-girl: Madam kasala don happen for area oooo; sidon make I gist u wetin happen

-A Lawyer: I was summoned by the magistrate to make some amends in my submissions

In summary, ensure that the reason you present for being late should be BASED ON LOGISTICS.

Great!