US Congressman Calls for Nnamdi Kanu's Release

A United States Congressman, John James, has renewed calls for the release of the leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, urging the Nigerian government to either conduct a fresh trial that complies with constitutional and international human rights standards or release him unconditionally. James made the appeal on the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives while referencing House Resolution 1321, which he introduced in May 2026.

The Michigan lawmaker linked Kanu's continued detention to his broader concerns about the treatment of Christians in Nigeria. He alleged that Christians have faced sustained violence in recent years and argued that the Nigerian government must uphold the rule of law and ensure that Kanu has access to legal counsel, medical care and humane conditions of detention in line with international obligations.

James also questioned continued U.S. financial assistance to Nigeria, saying Washington should not ignore allegations of religious persecution and human rights abuses. He urged his colleagues in Congress to support his resolution, which calls for legal proceedings involving Kanu to fully comply with Nigeria's Constitution and international human rights commitments.

Kanu, who was convicted on terrorism charges and sentenced to life imprisonment by a Federal High Court in Abuja in November 2025, is currently being held at the Kuje Correctional Centre. His case has remained a subject of legal, political and international attention, with supporters continuing to campaign for his release while Nigerian authorities maintain that the judicial process was followed.