Abuja lawyers Victor Giwa and Ibitade Bukola have been arraigned at the High Court, FCT (Apo Division) on charges of alleged document forgery, false personation, and fraudulent execution of documents.
The two pleaded not guilty to all three counts brought against them.
According to the charge sheet, on June 28, 2024, the defendants purportedly forged a letter on the letterhead of Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Awa Kalu, addressed to the Attorney General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi.
The forgery allegedly aimed to divert the AGF’s attention and prevent the arraignment of Giwa before Justice Samira Bature at the High Court, Maitama.
Earlier, the case had been stalled on September 15, 2025, leading the court to issue a bench warrant for Giwa’s arrest, which was eventually carried out.
At the arraignment hearing, Prosecution Counsel Asaph Eristo informed the court that the matter was set for arraignment, and the charges were read in open court.
The prosecution asked the court to remand Giwa, citing possible interference with the ongoing investigation.
Defence Counsel Edwin Anikpenu (SAN) applied for bail, arguing that both accused are legal practitioners, and that Bukola is nursing a child.
He sought to amend the bail application verbally to include Bukola, but the court criticized this approach given the strong legal representation.
The court denied bail to Bukola, ordering that she be remanded at the correctional facility in Suleja, Niger State.
On Giwa’s behalf, Anikpenu asked the court to grant bail on self‑recognition or place him in the custody of a reputable NBA (Garki branch) executive, with assurances he would not tamper with the case.
The prosecution opposed, presenting evidence and a counter‑affidavit asserting that Giwa is a flight risk, especially with public funds allegedly used in his arrest.
After arguments, Justice Jude Onwuegbuzie granted Giwa bail in the amount of ₦30 million, with two sureties of equal sum.
Sureties must be civil servants not below Grade Level 16, be residents of Abuja with verifiable addresses and valid IDs, and must present their international passports.
Giwa was to remain in police custody until he perfects the bail terms.
The case has been adjourned to October 15, 2025 for continuation.
