The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has dismissed reports suggesting he plans to testify in the trial of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) leader, Nnamdi Kanu, simply because his name appeared in the newspapers.
Speaking in Abuja on Friday, Wike clarified that he would only appear in court if he receives an official summons or subpoena compelling him to do so.
Wike insists on proper court process
The Minister explained that no legal notice or invitation had been served on him to appear as Kanu’s witness.
According to him, “You don’t become a witness by reading the newspaper. Nobody has served me any process; nobody has subpoenaed me.”
He added, “So, because I saw Wike listed, I will not begin to run helter-skelter. No, you don’t do that. If I am served, if I am subpoenaed to come and give a witness or give evidence, I must obey the court; I must appear.”
When asked why Kanu listed him among potential witnesses, Wike said he had no idea, noting that only the IPOB leader could provide an explanation.
“If you see Nnamdi Kanu, you ask him, ‘Why did you list me? I did not go and say I want to be a witness.’”
Other high-profile names listed
Nnamdi Kanu, who is facing terrorism charges at the Federal High Court in Abuja, included Wike among several top figures he described as “compellable witnesses.”
Others on the list include former Defence Minister Gen. Theophilus Danjuma (rtd), former Chief of Army Staff Gen. Tukur Buratai (rtd), Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, and Imo State Governor Hope Uzodinma.
Also named were the Minister of Works, Dave Umahi, and former Abia State Governor, Okezie Ikpeazu.