A member of the United States Congress, Representative John James, has renewed calls for the release of the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra IPOB, Nnamdi Kanu, urging the Nigerian government to respect constitutional guarantees and international human rights standards. The latest appeal adds fresh international attention to one of Nigeria’s most closely watched legal and political cases.
James, a Republican representing Michigan, made the call while referencing a resolution introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives that urges Nigeria to ensure all legal proceedings involving Kanu comply with constitutional obligations and internationally recognized human rights commitments. The resolution also encourages the U.S. Secretary of State to engage Nigerian authorities on issues surrounding Kanu’s detention, legal representation, medical care and due process.
The U.S. lawmaker argued that Nigeria should carefully consider the findings of the United Nations Working Group on Arbitrary Detention, which in 2022 concluded that Kanu’s detention violated international human rights obligations and called for his release and appropriate remedies. James said adherence to the rule of law and respect for fundamental rights are essential to maintaining democratic institutions and international credibility.
Kanu, who leads the proscribed IPOB, was convicted on terrorism related charges by a Federal High Court in Abuja in November 2025 and sentenced to life imprisonment. His legal team has appealed the conviction, arguing that the judgment was based on repealed laws and challenging the legality of his 2021 transfer from Kenya to Nigeria. The appeal is still pending before the courts.
The Nigerian government has consistently defended its handling of the case, maintaining that Kanu is being prosecuted through the country’s judicial system for offences related to terrorism and national security. Officials have repeatedly insisted that the proceedings are being conducted in accordance with Nigerian law and that the courts remain independent.
The renewed intervention by the U.S. congressman comes amid growing international scrutiny of Nigeria’s human rights record and justice system. While the House resolution is non binding and does not compel the Nigerian government to act, it reflects increasing concern among some American lawmakers over Kanu’s detention, trial conditions and access to legal and medical support.
The case continues to divide opinion across Nigeria. Supporters of Kanu argue that he is a political prisoner whose rights have been violated and have repeatedly called for a political solution to the dispute. Others insist that allegations involving national security should be resolved through the courts and caution against external interference in Nigeria’s judicial process.
The latest comments from James have generated fresh reactions online. Some Nigerians welcomed the intervention, saying it could encourage greater respect for due process and human rights. Others argued that foreign lawmakers should allow Nigeria’s courts to determine the outcome of the case without outside pressure. International observers also expressed mixed views, with some backing stronger diplomatic engagement and others emphasizing respect for Nigeria’s sovereignty while the legal process continues.
