Alleged Forgery Trial: Lawyer Withdraws Representation in Case Involving Fellow Legal Practitioner

A dramatic twist emerged on Wednesday in the ongoing alleged forgery and impersonation trial involving Abuja-based lawyer Victor Giwa, as his counsel, Farooq Akanbi, formally withdrew from the case, effectively leaving his client to represent himself before a Federal Capital Territory High Court sitting in Apo.

The case, which is being heard before Justice Jude Onwuegbuzie, involves allegations of forgery of official documents and impersonation of Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Awa Kalu. Giwa is standing trial alongside co-defendant Ibitade Bukola. Both defendants have pleaded not guilty to the charges.

According to proceedings, Akanbi announced his withdrawal in open court, following an apology to the judge for his conduct during the previous sitting, where he reportedly exited the courtroom before the arrival of the presiding judge—an incident that had led to an adjournment.

With the withdrawal, Giwa will now conduct his own defence in the ongoing trial.

During the sitting, Giwa also moved a motion seeking the release of his international passport on medical grounds. However, the prosecution counsel, Wisdom Madaki, opposed the application, questioning the authenticity of the medical documents submitted in support of the request.

Madaki alleged that verification conducted with the General Hospital, Nyanya, indicated that the medical reports presented to the court were not genuine.

After listening to arguments from both sides, Justice Onwuegbuzie reserved ruling on the passport application and other related motions until June 22, 2026.

The case continues as the court weighs the submissions from both the defence and prosecution in the ongoing trial.