Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.
The High Court of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) sitting in Apo has dismissed multiple applications filed by an Abuja-based lawyer, Victor Giwa, seeking to halt his ongoing trial over alleged forgery and impersonation. Justice Jude Onwuegbuzie, the presiding judge, also barred Giwa and his associates from making further public comments about the case.
Giwa and his co-defendant, Ibitade Bukola, are facing prosecution for allegedly forging documents and impersonating a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Awa Kalu, to mislead the Office of the Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) into withdrawing a criminal case previously filed against Giwa at another FCT High Court in Maitama.
During Wednesday's proceedings, the court dismissed a series of motions filed by the defence. Among them was an application challenging the court's jurisdiction to hear the matter. Justice Onwuegbuzie held that the court was properly constituted and competent to continue the trial.
The judge also rejected another motion seeking to strike out the charge for allegedly failing to disclose sufficient material evidence, ruling that service of court processes on the first defendant was proper and adequate. Furthermore, an application requesting the judge's recusal and transfer of the case to the FCT Chief Judge over alleged bias was dismissed. "I have gone through the application and there is no iota of truth in it," the judge stated. "He who asserts must prove. All steps taken so far follow due process. The court is not biased; we stand for justice at all times."
The court refused an application by Giwa seeking the temporary release of his international passport for medical treatment abroad, citing insufficient documentary evidence. However, the judge granted an application by the prosecution restraining Giwa, his agents, and associates from making further public statements about the case through newspapers, television, or social media platforms.
Regarding the prosecution's request to revoke Giwa's bail, the court declined, holding that bail could only be withdrawn upon clear evidence of misconduct. Citing the case of Ameh Obute & 5 Ors v. State, Justice Onwuegbuzie noted that while the defendant's conduct appeared unprofessional, it had not reached the threshold required for revocation. "If the misconduct continues, we will look into it," the judge warned.
The court also refused an application by the prosecution seeking leave to amend the charge, ruling that the proposed amendment introduced a separate offence that should be filed independently. The matter was adjourned to May 18, May 25, June 3, June 4, and June 10, 2026, for continuation of trial.
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