Abuja, FCT—A notable exchange has unfolded following the recent pronouncements by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mr. Nyesom Wike, concerning his potential involvement in the high-profile terrorism trial of the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Mazi Nnamdi Kanu.
Mr. Kanu, currently facing charges before the Federal High Court in Abuja, recently put forward a list of prominent Nigerian figures whom he desires to furnish evidence on his behalf. Wike’s name was conspicuously listed among these proposed defence witnesses.
Addressing the matter during his monthly media briefing in the nation’s capital, Wike publicly questioned the rationale behind his inclusion on the list, asserting that he had not voluntarily offered to participate in the proceedings. Despite this, he affirmed his commitment to adhering strictly to the judicial process.
“If you see Nnamdi Kanu, ask him why he listed me,” Minister Wike stated. “I did not volunteer to be a witness. So if the court issues a subpoena, I will appear.” His statement clarifies that his appearance is conditional upon a formal, legally binding summons from the court rather than an act of volunteerism.
In response to the Minister’s position, Mrs. Uchechi Okwu-Kanu, wife of the detained IPOB leader, issued a brief statement on the social media platform X.
Mrs. Okwu-Kanu indicated that the Minister’s stance, while questioning his presence on the list, aligns precisely with the expected legal procedures for compelling testimony in court. Her post read simply:
“Of course, that is the process we expect from the court. #FreeNnamdiKanu.”
The reaction affirms the defence team’s reliance on the court’s prerogative to summon individuals when deemed necessary to the proceedings, ensuring the legal process remains the determinant factor in securing testimony. The development places the onus squarely upon the Federal High Court to determine the material relevance of the Minister’s potential evidence and whether a formal summons will be issued.
