Wike says he will not attend court simply because reports named him a witness there.
He insists only a proper court order can make him testify in Kanu’s case officially.
FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, has clarified that he will not attend the court proceedings of IPOB leader Nnamdi Kanu simply because his name appeared in media reports as a potential witness.
Speaking during a media interaction in Abuja on Friday, Wike explained that he has not received any official court order requesting his appearance. He stressed that only a lawful directive would compel him to testify.
He noted that being mentioned in a publication does not amount to a formal invitation, saying the court must follow the proper legal process before he can be involved in the matter.
According to him, he cannot begin to worry over a newspaper report. “If the court sends me a formal notice or an order requiring me to give evidence, I will honor it, that is my duty,” he told journalists.
Wike added that he is unaware of the reason he was included on the list of witnesses. He maintained that Kanu alone can explain his motive for naming him.
On questions concerning whether a political approach should be adopted in Kanu’s case, Wike opted not to make any comment.
Kanu, who is facing terrorism-related charges before the Federal High Court in Abuja, reportedly included several prominent Nigerians as witnesses he wants the court to compel to testify.
Those on the list include former Chief of Army Staff, Gen. Tukur Buratai (rtd); former Minister of Defence, Gen. Theophilus Danjuma (rtd); Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu; Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodinma; Minister of Works, Dave Umahi; and former Abia State Governor, Okezie Ikpeazu.
Nnamdi Kanu has been in the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS) since his arrest and return from Kenya in June 2021.
