‘Nnamdi Kanu Now Global Symbol of Injustice’ — IPOB Welcomes US Congress Motion

The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has described its detained leader, Nnamdi Kanu, as a global symbol of injustice following a motion by United States Congressman John James calling for his immediate release.

In a statement issued on Friday by its spokesman, Emma Powerful, IPOB welcomed the intervention by the US Congress, saying Kanu’s detention was no longer an internal Nigerian matter but an issue attracting international attention.

The group thanked Congressman James and members of the US Congress for raising the matter during proceedings on the floor of the House of Representatives.

According to IPOB, the debate reflects growing international concern over Kanu’s continued detention and the legal proceedings surrounding his case.

The organisation claimed Kanu had joined the late South African leader, Nelson Mandela, as one of the few African figures whose treatment had been discussed on the floor of the US Congress.

It further argued that the development reinforced its determination to pursue a referendum on the future of Biafra.

“Onyendu Mazi Nnamdi Kanu is no longer a Nigerian internal matter. He has become a global symbol of injustice,” the statement said.

IPOB also commended its representatives in the United States for what it described as sustained diplomatic engagements that had drawn international attention to Kanu’s case.

The group praised Congressman James for highlighting concerns over insecurity and the treatment of Christians in Nigeria while also questioning Kanu’s continued detention.

According to IPOB, the congressman criticised the terrorism charges against Kanu and called for either a fresh trial that complies with constitutional standards or his unconditional release.

The organisation maintained that the legal proceedings against its leader lacked legitimacy and insisted the matter would continue to attract global scrutiny.

IPOB further claimed that growing international support demonstrated that the Federal Government’s position on Kanu was gradually losing credibility.

The statement also referenced a recent visit by an IPOB delegation to Israel, where members said Kanu’s case was discussed during meetings at the Israeli Knesset.

The renewed attention follows an earlier resolution adopted by the US Congress on May 22, 2026, urging the US Secretary of State to engage the Nigerian Government on Kanu’s detention.

Kanu remains in the custody of the Federal Government while legal proceedings concerning terrorism-related charges against him continue before the Nigerian courts.