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A human rights attorney, Victor Giwa, has expressed his distress over what he refers to as “judicial absurdity” displayed by Justice Jude Onwuegbuzie of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court located in Apo, Abuja.
Giwa is currently facing trial for alleged forgery before Justice Onwuegbuzie on a charge identified as CR/150/25, which was filed by the Inspector General of Police.
In a statement to reporters on Thursday, Giwa recounted his experience with the judge during the proceedings that took place on Wednesday, November 12, 2025.
He remarked, “Yesterday (Wednesday) was a deeply disappointing and unfortunate day for me. I was in tears because I had no idea that the Nigerian justice system had deteriorated to this extent. I witnessed yet another instance of this with Honourable Justice Jude Onwuegbuzie of the FCT High Court 30, Apo, before whom I am being tried.”
As one of the defendants in the case, Giwa stated that he attended court for the trial, which he described as a scheme orchestrated by the nominal complainant, Asabe Waziri, and facilitated by a senior attorney along with some individuals from the Office of the Chief Judge of the FCT.
Giwa explained that the case was scheduled for the cross-examination of the first prosecution witness, Waziri, and that he was prepared to proceed, just as the prosecuting counsel indicated his readiness to continue.
However, Giwa noticed that Waziri remained seated and did not approach the witness box.
At this point, Giwa reported that the judge interjected, stating that he had seen a motion on notice requesting his recusal from further proceedings in the case.
Giwa had submitted the motion, asking the judge to recuse himself due to alleged bias.
Further explaining, the human rights lawyer stated, “My Lord insisted on addressing the motion first. I informed the court that I had not yet commented on the motion, and in fact, I was not interested in the motion at that time. Nevertheless, His Lordship insisted that he would address the motion for recusal.”
“To clarify, I had four pending motions in the docket, including one challenging the court’s jurisdiction to proceed with the case, yet the honourable judge seemed more focused on the recusal motion. It was then that I received the shock of my life.”
“Honourable Justice Jude Onwuegbuzie began delivering his prepared ruling even before I had the chance to speak regarding the application.”
“I nearly fainted in court. I struggled to breathe. I shouted that I was about to faint. It felt surreal. The honourable judge was deeply entrenched in the proceedings.”
“The judge was compelled to deliver as directed. The court was determined to proceed against me. I was informed that the Honourable Chief Judge had a personal interest in the matter and that I should be incarcerated.”
According to Giwa, without hearing the arguments from both the defense and prosecution counsel, the judge proceeded to issue a ruling, affirming that he was not biased and that he would continue with the case.
Giwa concluded by stating that although he lacks influential connections, senior attorneys, and financial resources to maneuver through the system, he possesses a conscience.
“I have a conscience that many of them have lost. Nigeria must safeguard its conscience. We must protect our judiciary,” the human rights lawyer asserted.
Frequently Asked Questions
What allegations is Victor Giwa facing?
Victor Giwa is facing trial for alleged forgery, with charges filed by the Inspector General of Police.
What did Giwa express about the justice system?
Giwa expressed his distress over the perceived decline in the Nigerian justice system, describing his experience in court as a “judicial absurdity.”
What is the basis for Giwa's motion for the judge's recusal?
Giwa filed a motion for the judge's recusal based on alleged bias in the proceedings.
