U.S. House Resolution urges Nigeria to uphold Kanu’s rights, due process

International, Politics

WASHINGTON, D.C. (NPA) — A draft resolution introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives has called on the Nigerian government to ensure that all legal proceedings involving Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) leader, Nnamdi Kanu, are conducted in line with constitutional provisions and international human rights obligations.

The resolution, submitted by Congressman John James during the 119th Congress, raised concerns over the circumstances surrounding Kanu’s apprehension in Nairobi, Kenya, in June 2021 and his subsequent transfer to Nigeria.

According to the draft, legal observers and international bodies have questioned whether the transfer, which many said was an extraordinary rendition, complied with applicable legal standards and international obligations.

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The resolution referenced an opinion issued by the United Nations Working Group on Arbitrary Detention in July 2022, which found that Kanu’s detention violated international human rights obligations and called for his release and the provision of remedies.

It also cited concerns raised by human rights organisations regarding due process, access to legal representation, detention conditions and access to medical care.

The proposed resolution urged the Nigerian government to carefully consider the findings of the UN Working Group and take appropriate steps consistent with its recommendations.

Lawmakers further called on Nigerian authorities to ensure that Kanu has consistent access to legal counsel, necessary medical care and humane conditions of detention throughout the legal process.

The resolution also encouraged the U.S. Secretary of State to engage with the Nigerian government on issues relating to due process, detention conditions and respect for fundamental rights.

In addition, it reaffirmed the United States’ commitment to the protection of human rights, freedom of expression and the rule of law worldwide.

The draft resolution is expected to be considered by the relevant House committee before any further legislative action is taken.

Kanu is currently in prison in Sokoto following his conviction in November 2025 by the Federal High Court in Abuja on seven terrorism‑related charges and sentenced to life imprisonment. The IPOB leader is currently appealing the conviction and sentence at the Court of Appeal in Abuja.