The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has declared that he will not appear as a witness in the trial of Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), merely because his name was mentioned in newspapers.
Speaking during a media parley in Abuja on Friday, Wike clarified that he has not received any formal court summons or legal notice requiring him to testify.
“You don’t become a witness by reading it in the newspaper. Nobody has served me any legal process or subpoena,” Wike stated. “I will not panic simply because I saw my name listed. However, if I am officially summoned or subpoenaed to provide evidence, I will honour the court’s order.”
When asked why Kanu included his name among the witnesses, Wike said he had no idea, adding that only the IPOB leader could explain the decision.
“If you meet Nnamdi Kanu, ask him why he listed me. I never volunteered to be a witness,” he said.
Wike declined to comment on whether Kanu’s continued detention should be resolved through political means.
Nnamdi Kanu, who is facing terrorism charges at the Federal High Court in Abuja, named Wike among several “compellable witnesses” in his ongoing trial.
Others listed include former Minister of Defence, Gen. Theophilus Danjuma (rtd); former Chief of Army Staff, Gen. Tukur Buratai (rtd); Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu; Imo State Governor Hope Uzodinma; Minister of Works, Dave Umahi; and former Abia State Governor, Okezie Ikpeazu.
Kanu has remained in the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS) since his extradition from Kenya in June 2021.