…renews push for convicted IPOB leader’s release
By Chucks Nwonye
A United States Congressman has renewed pressure on the Nigerian government over the detention of Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) leader, Nnamdi Kanu, calling for either a new trial that meets constitutional and international standards or his immediate and unconditional release.
Michigan Representative, John James made the call on the floor of the US House of Representatives last week, drawing attention to his proposed resolution, which is currently before the House Committee on Foreign Affairs.
James told lawmakers that Kanu’s prolonged detention raises questions that go beyond a single case. He argued that the way the IPOB leader has been prosecuted and held reflects broader concerns about religious freedom and due process in Nigeria.
“The continued detention of Mr. Kanu cannot be separated from the wider conversation we are having about the treatment of Christians and minority communities in Nigeria,” James said during his remarks.
He added: “The United States must be consistent in how we apply our values abroad, especially when American taxpayer dollars are involved.”
The Congressman warned that continued US financial assistance to Nigeria could face increased scrutiny in Congress if human rights concerns are not addressed. His comments signal that foreign assistance and security cooperation may become part of the debate when lawmakers review the resolution in committee.
Kanu was convicted in 2025 on terrorism-related charges and is currently serving a life sentence. He remains in custody at the Sokoto Correctional facility. His legal team has continued to challenge aspects of the trial and detention, and the case has drawn statements from rights groups and diaspora organizations over the last year.
The IPOB leader first came to international prominence as the voice of the secessionist movement seeking an independent Biafra in southeastern Nigeria. He was first arrested in 2015, granted bail, and later rearrested in 2021 after being brought back to Nigeria from abroad. The circumstances of that rearrest have been a central point of contention in both Nigerian courts and in advocacy campaigns overseas.
Supporters of Kanu have continued to argue that his prosecution is politically motivated and that his right to a fair trial has not been protected.
On the other hand, Nigerian authorities maintain that the case was handled according to law and that the charges relate to actions they describe as threats to national security.
James in his submission urged the Nigerian government to take one of two paths: conduct a fresh trial that adheres to Nigeria’s constitution and to international human rights obligations, or release Kanu without conditions.
According to pundits, the measure does not have the force of law, but resolutions in the House can shape policy discussion and influence how the State Department and Congress approach bilateral relations.
The timing of James’s speech comes as Washington and Abuja continue cooperation on counterterrorism, trade, and regional stability in West Africa. Human rights issues have periodically surfaced in that relationship, particularly around security operations and protections for religious communities.
