The Federal Capital Territory High Court in Abuja has issued a bench warrant for two lawyers accused of forging a legal document to obstruct proceedings against one of them.
Justice Jude Onwuegbuzie ordered the arrest of Victor Giwa and Ibitade Bukola on Monday after they failed to appear for their arraignment. The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, had charged them with conspiracy, forgery, and impersonation under the Penal Code.
According to prosecutors, the defendants allegedly drafted a letter on the official letterhead of prominent lawyer Awa U. Kalu (SAN), appealing to the Attorney-General of the Federation to suspend Giwa’s arraignment in July 2024. The letter, titled “Urgent and Solemn Appeal to Suspend the Arraignment of Our Colleague Victor Giwa (Esq)”, was allegedly used in an attempt to mislead the justice ministry.
In court, defence counsel argued that Giwa was unwell with a spinal condition, while Bukola missed the session due to her child’s medical appointment. The prosecution rejected both explanations, insisting the defendants were avoiding arraignment.
Justice Onwuegbuzie agreed, ruling that the medical note did not prove Giwa was incapable of appearing, and ordered both defendants to be brought before the court. The case was adjourned to 8 October for arraignment.
