A member of the United States House of Representatives has renewed pressure on the Nigerian government over the continued detention of Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) leader Nnamdi Kanu, urging either his immediate release or a fresh trial that complies with constitutional and international legal standards.
Speaking before fellow lawmakers on Thursday, Congressman John James argued that Kanu’s case raises broader concerns about religious freedom and human rights in Nigeria.
Resolution Seeks Fair Legal Process
The Michigan representative referred to House Resolution 1321, which he introduced on May 22, 2026.
The proposed measure urges Nigerian authorities to ensure that all legal proceedings involving Kanu meet the requirements of Nigeria’s Constitution as well as internationally recognized human rights obligations.
The resolution is currently awaiting consideration by the House Committee on Foreign Affairs.
Lawmaker Raises Alarm Over Violence Against Christians
During his remarks, James described Nigeria as one of the most dangerous places in the world for Christians, claiming that thousands have lost their lives in attacks since 2019.
He alleged that extremist groups have carried out sustained violence against Christian communities and argued that the response from Nigerian authorities has been inadequate.
According to him, organisations such as Boko Haram have continued their activities without sufficient intervention.
Kanu’s Conviction Draws Criticism
James also used the opportunity to criticize the legal proceedings that resulted in Kanu’s imprisonment.
He described the IPOB leader as someone punished for speaking out against violence targeting Christians and argued that the terrorism conviction should be reviewed through a new trial conducted in line with constitutional safeguards.
Alternatively, he called for Kanu’s unconditional release.
The congressman insisted that any future legal process should guarantee access to legal representation, medical care and detention conditions that comply with international standards.
US Aid to Nigeria Mentioned in Appeal
In his address, James questioned continued American financial assistance to Nigeria while expressing concerns over the country’s human rights record.
He argued that the United States has a responsibility to ensure religious freedom is protected and suggested that ongoing support for Nigeria should be examined in light of the allegations he raised.
Kanu Serving Life Sentence on Terrorism Charges
Nnamdi Kanu is currently serving a life sentence after being convicted on terrorism-related charges by a Federal High Court in Abuja on November 20, 2025.
The judgment was delivered by Justice James Omotosho.
The IPOB leader is being held at the Correctional Centre in Kuje, Abuja, following his arrest in Nairobi, Kenya, in 2021 and subsequent transfer to Nigeria.
UN Opinion Referenced in Proposed Resolution
The congressional resolution also cites a July 20, 2022 opinion issued by the United Nations Working Group on Arbitrary Detention.
According to the document, the UN body concluded that Kanu’s detention breached international human rights obligations and recommended that he be released while also receiving appropriate remedies for the alleged violations.
As the resolution remains under review in the US Congress, James has continued to urge his colleagues to support the measure, arguing that Nigeria should uphold both its constitutional guarantees and international commitments in handling Kanu’s case.
