FCT Minister Wike Says He Will Honour Court Summons In Nnamdi Kanu’s Terrorism Trial If Subpoenaed By Court Authorities

 

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has said he is fully prepared to appear before the Federal High Court in Abuja as a witness in the ongoing trial of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB, if he is officially subpoenaed by the court. Wike made this known during his monthly media chat with journalists in Abuja, addressing the growing curiosity surrounding his unexpected inclusion in the list of witnesses submitted by Kanu’s defense team.

Addressing the issue with his characteristic composure, the former Rivers State Governor made it clear that he had no prior knowledge of being named as a witness in the high-profile case. He stated that his attention was drawn to the matter only after it was published in the media. Wike noted that while he has not received any formal court process or invitation to appear, he remains a law-abiding citizen who respects the authority of the judiciary.

According to him, there is no reason for speculation or panic over his name being mentioned, as the proper legal process has not yet been followed. “If you see Nnamdi Kanu, you ask him why he listed me,” Wike said with a touch of sarcasm. “I did not go to say I want to be a witness. Nobody has sent me any process, nobody has subpoenaed me. So because I saw my name listed, therefore I am going to run? No, that is not how the law works,” he emphasized.

The Minister underscored that he would not act based on newspaper reports or hearsay. He reaffirmed his firm belief in the rule of law and due process, stating that until he receives an official summons, there is no obligation on his part to make any appearance. However, he made it clear that if a subpoena is duly served, he would comply without hesitation. “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 said.

The ongoing trial of Nnamdi Kanu has drawn national and international attention, given the political, ethnic, and security implications surrounding his prosecution. Kanu, who leads the secessionist group IPOB, is facing charges bordering on terrorism and treasonable felony before Justice James Omotosho of the Abuja Federal High Court. The case has witnessed several adjournments and legal debates over issues such as jurisdiction, fair hearing, and the conditions of Kanu’s detention.

Wike’s name appearing on the list of witnesses came as a surprise to many political observers, sparking intense discussions about the possible reasons behind it. The minister, however, dismissed any speculation about his involvement, stressing that he does not know why the IPOB leader chose to include him. “He who chooses me there, you should ask him the question,” Wike remarked, adding that it was up to Kanu and his legal team to explain their decision.

Political analysts believe Wike’s calm and confident response reflects his deep understanding of legal and political processes. As a former governor, lawyer, and now minister, he has often been at the center of national debates, yet has managed to maintain his stance on respecting institutions of governance. His statement, they argue, helps to reinforce public confidence in the judiciary at a time when many citizens question the fairness of politically charged trials.

Observers also noted that Wike’s reaction was measured, perhaps to avoid escalating an already sensitive matter. The relationship between the federal government and the Southeast region remains delicate, with the IPOB issue being one of the most divisive topics in Nigerian politics. By keeping his response grounded in law and order, Wike appears to be signaling his commitment to democratic norms rather than political confrontation.

Legal experts have also commented that being listed as a potential witness does not automatically make one a participant in the proceedings until the court issues a formal summons. Under Nigerian law, a witness can only be compelled to testify if a valid subpoena is served, which Wike himself acknowledged. His willingness to comply if such a subpoena is issued aligns with constitutional expectations of public officers who must uphold the rule of law.

The minister’s media appearance further touched on his ongoing work in the FCT, where he has been implementing reforms aimed at urban renewal, environmental management, and infrastructure development. Yet, it was his comment on the Nnamdi Kanu case that dominated public discussions afterward. Many Nigerians took to social media to praise his straightforwardness, while others speculated about the underlying reasons for his inclusion in the witness list.

For now, Wike has maintained that until a court order is formally served, he remains focused on his duties as FCT Minister. “If I am invited, if I am subpoenaed to come, go home and sleep, I will be there,” he assured. His statement leaves no room for ambiguity, underscoring his willingness to cooperate with judicial authorities while rejecting any attempt to drag him into political drama through media speculation.

As Nnamdi Kanu’s trial continues, attention will likely remain on whether Wike and other listed witnesses will indeed be called to testify. Whatever direction the court proceedings take, Wike’s comments have positioned him as a figure ready to respect the law, reinforcing his public image as a politician who places institutional authority above personal sentiment.