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Tag: Wike

Wike Says He Will Only Testify In Nnamdi Kanu’s Trial If Officially Subpoenaed

Wike Says He Will Only Testify In Nnamdi Kanu’s Trial If Officially Subpoenaed

Wale busari02 mins

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has said he will only appear as a witness in the trial of IPOB leader Nnamdi Kanu if he is officially subpoenaed by the court. Speaking during his monthly media briefing on Friday, Wike addressed reports that Kanu had listed him among 23 planned witnesses, which also include former Minister of Defence Gen. Theophilus Danjuma (retd) and former Chief of Army Staff Gen. Tukur Buratai (retd). Wike clarified that he did not volunteer to be a witness and has not received any legal documents or formal court summons. He emphasised that one cannot assume the role of a witness simply based on media reports. “If you see Nnamdi Kanu, ask him why he listed me. I did not go to him to say I want to be a witness. You don’t become a witness by reading a newspaper. Nobody has served me process; nobody has subpoenaed me. “So, if I am served and subpoenaed to give evidence, I will obey the court and appear,” Wike said, stressing the importance of following proper legal procedure.

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Nnamdi Kanu Lists Malami, Wike, Buratai Among Witnesses in Terrorism Trial

Kamal Yalwa04 mins

The detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, has named several prominent Nigerians—including former Attorney-General of the Federation Abubakar Malami (SAN)—as witnesses in his ongoing terrorism trial before the Federal High Court in Abuja. In a motion personally signed by Kanu and filed before Justice James Omotosho, the IPOB leader stated his readiness to commence defence in compliance with the court’s directive. According to court filings sighted by the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), the motion—marked FHC/ABJ/CR/383/2015 and dated October 20—was filed on October 21. It is titled: “Notice of Number and Names of Witnesses to be Called by the Defendant and Request for Witness Summons/Subpoena and the Variation of the Time Within Which to Defend the Counts/Charges Against the Defendant.” Kanu disclosed plans to call 23 witnesses, divided into “ordinary but material witnesses” and “vital and compellable witnesses,” the latter to be summoned under Section 232 of the Evidence Act, 2011. He requested a 90-day period to conclude his defence. He also told the court he would personally testify, providing a sworn account of the events and explaining the political context of his statements and actions. Among his proposed “compellable witnesses” are: Former AGF Abubakar Malami Minister of the Federal Capital Territory Nyesom Wike Former Minister of Defence Gen. Theophilus Danjuma (rtd) Former Chief of Army Staff Gen. Tukur Buratai (rtd) Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu Imo State Governor Hope Uzodinma Minister of Works Dave Umahi Former Abia State Governor Okezie Ikpeazu Former DG of the National Intelligence Agency Ahmed Rufai Abubakar Former DG of the State Security Service Yusuf Bichi Kanu assured the court that all voluntary witnesses would submit sworn statements in advance and that his defence team would not delay proceedings. He emphasized that his intention was to ensure “justice is not only done but manifestly seen to have been done.” The motion follows his preliminary objection filed last week, challenging the jurisdiction of the court to continue hearing the case—filed the same day a court-appointed medical panel declared him fit to stand trial. Meanwhile, a magistrate court in Abuja on Tuesday ordered the remand of Kanu’s lawyer, Aloy Ejimakor, and 12 others arrested during Monday’s protest led by activist Omoyele Sowore, which demanded Kanu’s release. The defendants face charges of criminal conspiracy, disobedience of lawful order, and inciting disturbance under Sections 152, 114, and 113 of the Penal Code. They have been remanded at Kuje Correctional Centre pending their arraignment on October 24.

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Wike Mocks Peter Obi, Says He’ll Keep Contesting For President On Social Media

Wale busari04 mins

Federal Capital Territory Minister, Nyesom Wike, has mocked former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi, saying he will remain a “social media presidential candidate” rather than one taken seriously in Nigeria. Wike made the remark on Thursday while commissioning newly constructed roads in the Mabushi District of Abuja, responding to Obi’s recent comments about the poor state of public schools in the FCT. Obi had visited LEA Primary School in Kapwa on Wednesday, where he described the condition of the school as a “national disgrace” and a reflection of the government’s neglect of education. He lamented the lack of chairs, toilets, and other basic facilities, blaming the situation on leadership failure. In a sharp response, Wike accused Obi of politicising the issue and using emotional gestures to gain sympathy on social media. He said his administration was already addressing infrastructure challenges in the FCT, insisting that Obi had no moral ground to criticise anyone’s performance. “I hear one of the social media presidential candidates went to a local school and claimed the government has abandoned public education. His name is Mr Peter Obi. It’s not everything you must play politics with,” Wike said. The minister also took aim at Obi’s record as governor of Anambra State, alleging that he ignored key infrastructure projects during his eight-year tenure. “Peter Obi, you were governor for eight years. If you had completed all the necessary work in Anambra, nobody would still be talking about development there today. And why did you fall out with your successor?” Wike questioned. He further compared Obi’s tenure to his own record in Abuja, saying: “We’ve only been in office for two years. You served eight years. Compare what we’ve done in two years in the FCT to what you did in Anambra in eight years. Can you really say you love this country or Ndi Anambra? Certainly not.” Wike concluded with a taunt: “You will continue to contest for President on social media, but never as President of Nigeria. You couldn’t manage your own party, yet you want to manage a country of over 200 million people. It’s not possible for people like you.”  

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Wike Says Critics Who Mocked His Tinubu Ties Now Flocking to APC

Wike Says Critics Who Mocked His Tinubu Ties Now Flocking to APC

Wale busari05 mins

FCT Minister Nyesom Wike on Wednesday highlighted a shift in the political landscape, noting that many who previously criticised him for his ties with President Bola Tinubu are now joining the All Progressives Congress (APC). The statement came a day after Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah formally left the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for the APC. Speaking at the flag-off of the construction of the main carriageways of the Outer Southern Expressway (OSEX) from Ring Road 1 to Ring Road 2 along Wassa Road in Abuja, Wike defended his political decisions, saying politics requires maturity and foresight. “I have been watching on television and social media, those who accused me of destabilising the PDP and working for APC, all of them are now in APC. If it is true I worked for APC, then they should commend me, not condemn me. It means I did a good job for them,” he said. Reaffirming his loyalty to President Tinubu, Wike praised the administration’s policies, particularly the removal of the fuel subsidy, which he said has strengthened the financial position of states and the FCT, ending the need for governors to scramble for loans to pay salaries. “I was a governor for eight years, and I know what it meant to run around banks to borrow money for projects and even to pay salaries. But today, by the decisive leadership of Mr President, banks are now the ones running after states. Salaries are being paid, projects are being executed, and no governor is talking about leaving huge debts for successors. That is visionary leadership,” he said. Wike said the ongoing infrastructure developments in Abuja are a direct result of President Tinubu’s purposeful leadership. “Whatever we are achieving today in the FCT is because of that leadership. Once you set the standard, everyone you appoint must follow suit,” he added. He also assured Apo traders that plans for their relocation remain on course, revealing that the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) has completed costings for the provision of infrastructure at the new site. On the OSEX project, Wike emphasised its importance in decongesting traffic into the city. “Before the Apo–Wassa road was completed, it took hours to enter the city. It was horrible. But gradually, we are delivering relief and convenience to the people of the FCT,” he said. The minister commended FCT Area Council chairmen for working across party lines to support his administration, calling their cooperation unprecedented. Former Super Eagles captain Joseph Yobo, who attended the event, was described by Wike as “a brother” committed to youth-focused initiatives in Abuja. In a vote of thanks, Minister of State, FCT, Dr Mariya Mahmoud, hailed the OSEX project as “a bold step toward easing traffic, boosting economic activity, and improving mobility for residents.” She praised President Tinubu for “turning policies into visible transformation of lives and communities,” and commended Wike for making the FCT “a construction powerhouse and a model of national renewal.”  

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Wike Promises No FCT Judge Will Live In Rented Apartment Before Tinubu’s First Term Ends

Wale busari04 mins

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has pledged that before the end of President Bola Tinubu’s first term, no judge of the FCT High Court will be living in a rented apartment. Wike made the promise on Monday during the flag-off of the design and construction of official residences for the Heads of Courts in the FCT. He said the initiative marks the beginning of a new era for judicial officers in the nation’s capital. “Before the first tenure of Mr President ends, no judge of the FCT High Court will be living in a rented quarter,” Wike said. “I didn’t say Federal High Court or National Industrial Court — I mean judges of the FCT High Court.” The minister explained that the project is part of the administration’s broader effort to improve judicial welfare and infrastructure, following the recent construction of magistrate courts in Jabi and 40 judges’ quarters in Katampe District. He stressed that the move should not be mistaken for executive interference, noting that the Federal Capital Development Authority is responsible for constructing public buildings in the FCT. Wike also revealed that the heads of courts, including the President of the Court of Appeal, Chief Judges of the Federal and FCT High Courts, and the Judge of the National Industrial Court, will retain ownership of their residences after retirement. “What we are doing today is not temporary accommodation. When they retire, the houses will become theirs. That’s the directive of Mr President, and that’s why the seal of oaths was issued in their names,” Wike said. “So, no one should expect any controversy about ownership after they retire — these homes are part of their entitlements.” Also speaking at the event, the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi, commended the initiative, describing it as a major step toward strengthening judicial independence and institutional integrity. He said, “Providing secure and befitting accommodation for heads of court will enhance their independence, dignity, and security, enabling them to discharge their duties with greater focus and authority.” Fagbemi further noted that the initiative would help reduce corruption within the judiciary, adding, “Even if you accuse the judiciary of corruption, what would they be doing with the money when their accommodation is already taken care of?” He praised President Tinubu and Wike for prioritizing judicial welfare, saying their actions reflect a genuine commitment to institutional strengthening and infrastructural development.  

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Wike Calls Himself “Golden Minister,” Says God Specially Favoured Him

Wale busari02 mins

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has described himself as a “golden minister,” saying he feels specially favored by God. Speaking on Thursday during the flag-off of the construction of Collector Road CN2 (Emmanuel I. Ogala Street) from Arterial N16 (Yemi Osinbajo Way) to N20 (Wole Soyinka Way) in Katampe District, Wike reflected on his political journey and milestones. He noted that he was serving as governor when Rivers State celebrated its 50th anniversary and now holds the position of minister as the Federal Capital Territory prepares to mark its own 50th anniversary next February. Wike said, “Some of us have been very lucky. We were governors when our state turned 50, and now we are ministers as the FCT turns 50. Are we not so loved by God?” He added that his experience is a sign of divine favor, urging others not to be envious. “Well, you may sit on my seat, but that does not mean you’re loved specially like we are loved by God,” he said. He also encouraged stakeholders to work hard to ensure the FCT’s golden jubilee celebration is a memorable one.  

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FCT Minister Nyesom Wike Declares Abuja One of Nigeria’s Safest Cities on 65th Independence Day

Wale busari03 mins

As Nigeria celebrates its 65th Independence anniversary, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barr. Nyesom Wike, has affirmed that Abuja remains one of the safest cities in the country, attributing this to both government initiatives and residents’ commitment to peace. In his Independence Day message to FCT residents, Wike said the territory has stood out as a model of unity and security, even as other parts of the country face challenges. “Residents have remained intentional about living together in peace and harmony despite a few distractions. Consequently, the FCT has become one of the most peaceful places to reside in the entire country,” he stated. Wike credited Abuja’s relative calm to a joint effort: the security measures implemented by the FCT Administration in partnership with law enforcement agencies, and the residents’ “zero tolerance for insecurity.” He praised citizens for their vigilance and cooperation, urging them to continue reporting suspicious activities and supporting the administration’s efforts to maintain law and order. The minister also highlighted the role of President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which he said has brought “unprecedented development and security measures” to the capital. “We have reconstructed schools and hospitals, built strategic roads, empowered youths and women, and supported our farmers. These interventions are strengthening the economy of the FCT and improving living standards,” Wike said. Looking ahead to the February 2026 area council elections, Wike called on residents to uphold Abuja’s reputation for peace by focusing on issues-based campaigns and voting responsibly. “I implore residents to campaign for candidates of their choice in a peaceful and orderly manner. I also encourage everyone to come out in large numbers to vote for leaders with vision and the capacity to drive development,” he appealed. “As we mark 65 years of nationhood, let us look forward with renewed hope. The FCT will continue to symbolize our unity, resilience, and now, one of the safest places to call home in Nigeria,” he concluded.  

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Breaking: Tinubu Lifts Emergency Rule in Rivers, Reinstates Gov Fubara

Fola Badmus19 mins

By Bunmi Ogunyale Nigeria’s President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu has lifted the State of Emergency rule on Rivers State. The President made this declaration in a statement made available in Abuja on Wednesday. His words; “My Fellow countrymen and, in particular, the good people of Rivers State. “I am happy to address you today on the state of emergency declaration in Rivers State. You will recall that on 18th March, 2025, I proclaimed a state of emergency in the state. In my proclamation address, I highlighted the reasons for the declaration. “The summary of it for context is that there was a total paralysis of governance in Rivers State, which had led to the Governor of Rivers State and the House of Assembly being unable to work together. Critical economic assets of the State, including oil pipelines, were being vandalised. “The State House of Assembly was crisis-ridden, such that members of the House were divided into two groups. Four members worked with the Governor, while 27 members opposed the Governor. The latter group supported the Speaker. As a result, the Governor could not present any Appropriation Bill to the House, to enable him to access funds to run Rivers State’s affairs. That serious constitutional impasse brought governance in the State to a standstill. Even the Supreme Court, in one of its judgments in a series of cases filed by the Executive and the Legislative arms of Rivers State against each other, held that there was no government in Rivers State. “My intervention and that of other well-meaning Nigerians to resolve the conflict proved abortive as both sides stuck rigidly to their positions to the detriment of peace and development of the State. “It therefore became painfully inevitable that to arrest the drift towards anarchy in Rivers State, I was obligated to invoke the powers conferred on me by Section 305 of the 1999 Constitution, as amended, to proclaim the state of emergency. The Offices of the Governor, Deputy Governor, and elected members of the State House of Assembly were suspended for six months in the first instance. The six months expire today, September 17th, 2025. “I thank the National Assembly, which, after critically evaluating the justification for the proclamation, took steps immediately, as required by the Constitution, to approve the declaration in the interest of peace and order in Rivers State. I also thank our traditional rulers and the good people of Rivers State for their support from the date of the declaration of the state of emergency until now. “I am not unaware that there were a few voices of dissent against the proclamation, which led to their instituting over 40 cases in the courts in Abuja, Port Harcourt, and Yenagoa, to invalidate the declaration. That is the way it should be in a democratic setting. “Some cases are still pending in the courts as of today. But what needs to be said is that the power to declare a state of emergency is an inbuilt constitutional tool to address situations of actual or threatened breakdown of public order and public safety, which require extraordinary measures to return the State to peace, order and security. “Considered objectively, we had reached that situation of total breakdown of public order and public safety in Rivers State, as shown in the judgment of the Supreme Court on the disputes between the Executive and the Legislative arm of Rivers State. It would have been a colossal failure on my part as President not to have made that proclamation. “As a stakeholder in democratic governance, I believe that the need for a harmonious existence and relationship between the executive and the legislature is key to a successful government, whether at the state or national level. The people who voted us into power expect to reap the fruits of democracy. However, that expectation will remain unrealizable in an atmosphere of violence, anarchy, and insecurity borne by misguided political activism and Machiavellian manipulations among the stakeholders. “I am happy today that, from the intelligence available to me, there is a groundswell of a new spirit of understanding, a robust readiness, and potent enthusiasm on the part of all the stakeholders in Rivers State for an immediate return to democratic governance. This is undoubtedly a welcome development for me and a remarkable achievement for us. I therefore do not see why the state of emergency should exist a day longer than the six months I had pronounced at the beginning of it. “It therefore gives me great pleasure to declare that the emergency in Rivers State of Nigeria shall end with effect from midnight today. The Governor, His Excellency Siminalayi Fubara, the deputy governor, Her Excellency Ngozi Nma Odu, and members of the Rivers State House of Assembly and the speaker, Martins Amaewhule, will resume work in their offices from 18 September 2025. “I take this opportunity to remind the Governors and the Houses of Assembly of all the States of our country to continue to appreciate that it is only in an atmosphere of peace, order, and good government that we can deliver the dividends of democracy to our people. I implore all of you to let this realisation drive your actions at all times. “I thank you all.” Long live the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

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