Justice Jude Onwuegbuzie of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court, sitting in Apo, has rejected a request by Abuja-based lawyer, Victor Giwa, asking him to withdraw from a forgery and impersonation trial.
The case involves Giwa and another defendant, Ibitade Bukola, who are accused of forging official documents and pretending to be Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Awa Kalu.
Prosecutors allege they used the fake documents to try to deceive the Office of the Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) into dropping earlier charges filed against Giwa at the FCT High Court in Maitama.
During Wednesday’s hearing, Giwa represented himself, while Ogbu Aboje appeared for the second defendant. The prosecution was led by F.G. Gabriel on behalf of the Inspector-General of Police.
Giwa filed four motions before the court, including one asking the judge to step aside for alleged bias.
He claimed his trial was pre-arranged and that Justice Onwuegbuzie had shown manifest bias in handling the case.
He cited Sections 6(6) and 36 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) and supported his motion with a 74-paragraph affidavit and 15 exhibits.
The prosecution, however, urged the court to dismiss the request, describing Giwa’s claims as unfounded and speculative.
In a brief ruling, Justice Onwuegbuzie dismissed Giwa’s motion, saying it lacked merit and evidence.
“The application is borne out of mere imagination,” the judge said.
“You cannot move a motion that is not properly before the court. Having examined the affidavit and submissions, I find no basis for the allegations of bias. All actions taken in this matter have followed due process.”
Justice Onwuegbuzie added that the court would not be swayed by baseless claims and would ensure justice was done.
“Justice must be served without fear or favour,” he declared.
The case was adjourned to November 27, 2025, for continuation of trial to hear Giwa’s motion challenging the court’s jurisdiction.
