Federal Capital Territory Minister, Nyesom Wike, has reacted to his name being listed among those expected to testify in the terrorism trial of Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) leader, Nnamdi Kanu.
Kanu is currently facing terrorism charges before Justice James Omotosho at the Federal High Court in Abuja.
During his monthly media chat in Abuja, Wike questioned the decision to include him as a witness, saying he never offered to testify on the matter.
“If you see Nnamdi Kanu, you ask him why did he list me? I did not go to say I want to be a witness. So if you see him ask him why did you list Wike as one of your witnesses?” he said.
Wike insisted that there is no official notification from the court asking him to appear.
“You don’t become a witness by reading newspaper, nobody has sent me any process. Nobody has subpoenaed me,” the minister added.
He stressed that he would only appear if the court compels him.
“If I am subpoenaed to come and give witness or give evidence, I must obey the court. I must appear but not appear on the pages of newspaper.” He stated.
Wike further stated that those who listed his name should explain their reasons.
“He who chooses me there, you should ask him the question. But if I am invited, if I am subpoenaed to come, go home and sleep, I will be there.”
Meanwhile, recent court filings show that Kanu has named 23 witnesses who he says will support his defence in the trial. NAIJAONPOINT es are separated into two groups — individuals he considers “ordinary but material” and others he labels “vital and compellable.”
High-profile figures listed include former Chief of Army Staff Tukur Buratai, Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, retired General Theophilus Danjuma, and Minister Nyesom Wike.