ister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has made it clear that he will only appear as a witness in the trial of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), if he is formally summoned by the court.
Speaking during a media briefing in Abuja on Friday, Wike addressed reports that his name had been included among those listed as potential witnesses for Kanu’s defence. He emphasised that he had not received any official communication requiring his appearance.
“You don’t become a witness by reading the newspaper,” Wike said. “Nobody has served me any process; nobody has subpoenaed me. 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 evidence, I must obey the court; I must appear.”
Furthermore, Wike explained that he had no prior knowledge of why his name was mentioned in connection with Kanu’s case. He added, “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.’”
Meanwhile, reports indicate that Kanu’s legal team has submitted a list of potential witnesses that includes several prominent Nigerians, such as former Attorney General Abubakar Malami, former Chief of Army Staff Tukur Buratai, and Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, among others.
Wike’s remarks highlight his commitment to due process. He maintained that while he respects the authority of the court, he would not act outside legal procedures or respond to speculative reports.
As the trial continues, attention now shifts to whether the court will issue summonses to any of the listed individuals. Until then, Wike’s position remains firm: he will only appear if the law requires it.
