By
Gloria Ugwuoke
An Ikeja High Court, Lagos, witnessed forensic brilliance on February 20, 2026, as world-renowned expert Chief Reginald Udunze took the stand to dismantle the mechanics of signature forgery.
In a high-stakes testimony that held the courtroom spellbound, Chief Udunze, the head of Apex Forensic Nig. Ltd, provided a masterclass on why a “perfect” copy is often the clearest sign of a fake.
Testifying in his evidence-in-chief, Udunze explained a paradox that often confuses the public; just because two signatures look alike doesn’t mean they are both real.
”Simulated signatures generally exhibit a considerable degree of similarities in features,” Udunze told the court. “The mimicry mimics the obvious pictorial features of the genuine signature, but similarity does not equate to identity,” he said.
He testified that while a forger can copy the shape of a letter or strokes, he can not replicate the subconscious speed, pressure, fluid “rhythm” and master pattern of the true author.
Under intense cross-examination by three defence lawyers, the Chief remained unshakable, noting that his findings were based on objective ACE-V Methodology international standards using samples provided by the Nigeria Police to his laboratory.
The proceedings highlighted a rare and powerful professional lineage.
Accompanying Chief Udunze was his son, Mr. Harrison Udunze, a formidable forensic document and handwriting expert in his own right.
The younger Udunze is currently making waves in the legal community, having recently delivered a landmark testimony at the Ibadan High Court regarding digital synthesis photo facsimile forgery of signatures.
As forgery becomes more sophisticated worldwide, the “Udunze Forensic Dynasty” represents a critical line of defence for the integrity of the law. By blending decades of traditional experience with modern digital analysis, the father-son duo is ensuring that truth never escapes the eyes of the court.
The case continues, but the impact of Chief Udunze’s testimonies in several cases has already set a high bar for forensic evidence in the world of forensic investigations.
Gloria Ugwuoke is a Nigerian journalist specializing in legal and corporate affairs. She covers the intersection of law, business and technology in West Africa.
