In a stunning declaration, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has publicly challenged the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, demanding to know why his name was mysteriously included in Kanu’s defence witness list.

The fiery minister broke his silence during a monthly media briefing in Abuja, reacting with visible surprise to reports that he is among 23 prominent Nigerians slated to testify for Kanu in his high-stakes terrorism trial before Justice James Omotosho.

“If you see Nnamdi Kanu, ask him why he listed me,” Wike declared, directly addressing the IPOB leader. “I didn’t go to say I want to be a witness. So, if you see him, ask him why he listed Wike as one of his witnesses.”

Dismissing the media reports as an unofficial spectacle, Wike asserted that he has been thrust into the legal drama without any formal notice. “You don’t become a witness by reading newspapers. Nobody has sent me any court process or subpoena,” he stated, drawing a clear line between press headlines and judicial procedure.

However, the Minister issued a stark warning: should the court formally summon him, he will not hesitate to answer.

“If I am subpoenaed to come and give evidence, I must obey the court. I will appear — but not on the pages of newspapers,” Wike affirmed, signaling his readiness to enter the legal arena.

Ending on a characteristically defiant note, he placed the burden of explanation squarely on Kanu and his legal team. “He who listed me should answer that question. But if I’m invited, if I’m subpoenaed, don’t worry — I’ll be there.”

The witness list, which has sent political shockwaves, also includes other heavyweights such as former Army Chief Lt. Gen. Tukur Buratai, Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, and retired General Theophilus Danjuma, setting the stage for a courtroom battle of unprecedented proportions.