The United States Congress has called on the Secretary of State to engage with the Nigerian government over the legal proceedings, conviction and imprisonment of Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) leader, Nnamdi Kanu.
The directive followed the passage of Resolution H.Res. 1321 on May 22, 2026. A copy of the resolution was obtained in Abuja on Tuesday.
The motion, sponsored by Congressman John James, urged the Nigerian government to ensure that all legal proceedings involving Kanu are conducted in line with the country’s constitutional provisions and international human rights obligations.
Kanu was sentenced to life imprisonment on November 20, 2025, by the Federal High Court in Abuja after being convicted on terrorism-related charges brought against him by the Federal Government. He is currently serving his sentence at Sokoto Prison.
However, Kanu and his legal team have challenged the judgment, arguing that the conviction was based on laws that had already been repealed. An appeal has since been filed, although hearing on the matter has yet to begin.
In its resolution, the US Congress also urged the Nigerian government to consider the findings and recommendations of the United Nations Working Group on Arbitrary Detention regarding Kanu’s detention.
Kanu’s lawyers have repeatedly expressed concern over his continued detention in Sokoto Prison, arguing that the location could complicate preparations for his appeal, which is expected to be heard in Abuja. They have also raised concerns about his safety while in custody.
Part of the resolution reads:
“The Government of Nigeria should ensure that all legal proceedings involving Mazi Nnamdi Kanu are conducted in full accordance with Nigeria’s constitutional obligations and international human rights commitments.”
The resolution further noted that Kanu is a political figure known for advocating on behalf of communities in southeastern Nigeria and has publicly expressed views on political self-determination and governance through peaceful advocacy.
It also referenced concerns raised by legal observers and international organisations regarding the circumstances surrounding Kanu’s arrest in Nairobi, Kenya, in June 2021 and his subsequent transfer to Nigeria.
According to the resolution, questions remain over whether the process complied with international legal standards and obligations.
Congress also cited the July 20, 2022 opinion of the United Nations Working Group on Arbitrary Detention, which found that Kanu’s detention violated international human rights standards and recommended his release, alongside appropriate remedies.
The latest development adds an international dimension to the ongoing legal and political debates surrounding Kanu’s conviction and imprisonment, as attention shifts to the pending appeal against his life sentence.
