A member of the United States House of Representatives, John James, has called on the Nigerian Government to ensure that all legal proceedings involving the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, are conducted in line with constitutional provisions and international human rights standards.
The appeal follows the adoption of Resolution H.Res. 1321 by the U.S. House of Representatives on May 22, 2026. The resolution, reportedly sponsored by James, urges the U.S. Secretary of State to engage with Nigerian authorities on issues relating to Kanu’s detention, access to legal representation, medical care, and the protection of his due process rights.
According to the resolution, Congress is encouraging Nigeria to ensure that Kanu’s ongoing legal proceedings comply with both domestic constitutional obligations and international human rights commitments.
Kanu has remained at the centre of a high-profile legal dispute since his arrest and transfer to Nigeria in June 2021. The resolution highlighted concerns surrounding the circumstances of his arrest in Kenya and subsequent return to Nigeria, noting that legal experts and international observers have questioned whether the process complied with relevant legal and international standards.
The document also referenced a July 2022 opinion issued by the United Nations Working Group on Arbitrary Detention, which concluded that Kanu’s detention violated international human rights obligations and recommended corrective measures.
Lawmakers urged Nigerian authorities to carefully review the findings of the UN body and take actions consistent with its recommendations.
The resolution further emphasized concerns relating to Kanu’s access to legal counsel, detention conditions, medical treatment, and adherence to due process throughout the judicial process.
It called on the Nigerian Government to guarantee uninterrupted access to legal representation, adequate healthcare services, and humane conditions of detention while his case remains before the courts.
In addition, the U.S. House urged the Secretary of State to maintain engagement with Nigerian authorities on matters concerning fair trial rights, detention conditions, and the protection of fundamental freedoms.
The lawmakers also cited concerns raised by various human rights organizations regarding due process and fair trial standards, stressing that respect for freedom of expression, humane treatment of detainees, and adherence to the rule of law remain essential principles under international law.
The development is expected to attract renewed international attention to Kanu’s case and intensify scrutiny of Nigeria’s handling of one of its most sensitive legal and political matters.
US Lawmaker Urges Nigeria to Uphold Due Process in Nnamdi Kanu’s Trial
