Court grants Abuja lawyer bail over forgery, impersonation of SAN

An Abuja-based lawyer, Ibitade Bukola, and her co-defendant, Victor Giwa, who are standing trial for alleged forgery and impersonation of a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Awa Kalu, have been granted bail by the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court in Maitama.

Justice Jude Onwuegbuzie admitted Bukola to bail in the sum of ₦30 million, with two sureties in like sum. The sureties must be civil servants not below Grade Level 16, reside within Abuja, and present verifiable addresses and valid means of identification. The court also ordered the defendant to deposit her international passport with the court.

Counsel to the second defendant, Ogbu Aboje, had urged the court to grant bail, arguing that his client posed no flight risk and would be available to face trial. However, the prosecuting counsel, Erisco Asaph, opposed the application, citing Sections 37 and 115 of the Evidence Act, and contending that granting bail would not serve the interest of justice.

After considering arguments from both sides, the court ruled in favour of the defence. Bukola is to remain in custody at the Suleja Correctional Facility pending the fulfilment of her bail conditions.

The case was adjourned to October 30, 2025, for continuation of trial.