By DAYO ADESULU
A member of the United States House of Representatives, John James, has renewed his call for the release of the leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, urging the Nigerian government to either free him unconditionally or grant him a fresh trial that complies with constitutional and international legal standards.
Speaking on the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives on Thursday, the Michigan lawmaker linked Kanu’s continued detention to broader concerns about the treatment of Christians in Nigeria.
James argued that the ongoing legal process involving the IPOB leader should fully comply with Nigeria’s Constitution as well as internationally recognised human rights obligations.
Resolution Before US Congress
The congressman referenced House Resolution 1321 (H.Res. 1321), which he introduced on May 22, 2026.
The resolution urges the Nigerian government to ensure that all legal proceedings involving Kanu meet constitutional requirements, provide full access to legal representation and medical care, and respect international standards governing humane detention.
The proposal is currently awaiting consideration by the U.S. House Committee on Foreign Affairs.
Concerns Over Religious Violence
During his address, James described Nigeria as one of the world’s most dangerous places for Christians, alleging that thousands of Christians have lost their lives in attacks by extremist groups since 2019.
He claimed that terrorist organisations, including Boko Haram, have continued to carry out attacks while accusing Nigerian authorities of failing to respond adequately.
The lawmaker further argued that the United States should closely examine its financial assistance to Nigeria in light of these concerns.
Appeal for Fresh Trial or Freedom
Turning specifically to Kanu’s case, James described the IPOB leader as someone who deserved either a new trial conducted in accordance with constitutional safeguards or immediate release.
He appealed to fellow lawmakers to support his resolution, insisting that Kanu should receive due process, including access to legal counsel, medical treatment, and humane detention conditions consistent with international law.
Background to Kanu’s Conviction
Nnamdi Kanu was sentenced to life imprisonment on November 20, 2025, after a Federal High Court in Abuja found him guilty on terrorism-related charges.
He is currently being held at the Kuje Correctional Centre in the Federal Capital Territory following his arrest in Nairobi, Kenya, in 2021 and subsequent transfer to Nigeria.
Supporters of Kanu have continued to challenge both his arrest and detention, while the Nigerian government maintains that his prosecution follows the country’s laws.
The resolution promoted by Congressman James also cites a July 2022 opinion by the United Nations Working Group on Arbitrary Detention, which concluded that Kanu’s detention violated international human rights obligations and recommended his release.
Why This Matters
The renewed intervention by a U.S. lawmaker adds an international dimension to the long-running legal and political debate surrounding Nnamdi Kanu’s detention. While the resolution does not have legal authority over Nigeria, it reflects growing attention among some foreign lawmakers to issues involving human rights, religious freedom, and the rule of law in the country.
This report is based on public statements made by U.S. Congressman John James. The views expressed are those of the congressman and do not represent findings by The Cheer News.
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