The forgery and impersonation trial of Abuja-based lawyer Victor Giwa was stalled on Wednesday after his lawyer left the courtroom before the judge arrived, forcing the court to adjourn proceedings.
Giwa and his co-defendant, Ibitade Bukola, are being tried before Justice Jude Onwuegbuzie of the Federal Capital Territory High Court in Apo over allegations of forging official documents and impersonating Senior Advocate of Nigeria Awa Kalu.
During the hearing, prosecutor Wisdom Madaki, who appeared for the Inspector-General of Police’s legal team, told the court that Giwa’s lawyer, Farooq Akanbi, had been in court but left before the case was called, leaving the defendant without legal representation.
Madaki argued that the lawyer’s departure appeared to be an attempt to delay the case.
He said the defence had already received the prosecution’s response to Giwa’s request for the release of his international passport, as well as a further affidavit filed on May 22, 2026.
Explaining what happened, Madaki told the court: “I showed him the document for identification, after reviewing it, he said he had no objection but insisted his motion was more important.”
When the matter came up briefly, Giwa informed the court that his lawyer no longer wished to continue with the case.
He then sought to represent himself, citing the urgency of his application for the release of his passport and his constitutional right to self-representation under Section 36(6)(c) of the 1999 Constitution.
The prosecution urged the court to proceed with the trial to avoid further delays, arguing that the case was ready for hearing.
However, Justice Onwuegbuzie refused to continue without clarification from the defence lawyer.
“I will not allow that. The first defendant has counsel. Let him come and clear the air,” the judge ruled.
The judge stressed that any lawyer wishing to withdraw from a case must follow proper procedures or formally notify the court.
He also criticised the defence for showing what he described as a lack of respect for the court by failing to ensure representation or communicate any change in legal strategy.
As a result, the judge adjourned the case until June 10, 2026, for continuation of the trial.
The previously scheduled sitting on June 4 was cancelled due to the court’s official engagements.
