The United States Congress has formally directed the Secretary of State to engage the Nigerian government over the trial, conviction and imprisonment of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), in a move that could intensify international attention on the controversial case.
The directive followed the passage of Resolution H.Res. 1321 on May 22, 2026, urging Nigerian authorities to ensure that all legal proceedings involving Kanu comply fully with constitutional guarantees and international human rights obligations.
The resolution, sponsored by Congressman John James, also called on the Nigerian government to consider the findings and recommendations of the United Nations Working Group on Arbitrary Detention regarding Kanu’s incarceration.
Kanu was sentenced to life imprisonment on November 20, 2025, by a 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, the IPOB leader and his legal team have challenged the judgment, arguing that the conviction was based on laws that had already been repealed.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 proceedings are yet to begin.
In the resolution, members of Congress raised concerns over the circumstances surrounding Kanu’s arrest in Nairobi, Kenya, in June 2021 and his subsequent transfer to Nigeria, noting that questions remain about whether the process complied with international legal standards.
The lawmakers further referenced the July 2022 opinion of the United Nations Working Group on Arbitrary Detention, which concluded that Kanu’s detention violated international human rights obligations and recommended his release and compensation.
Part of the resolution reads: “Calling on the Government of Nigeria to ensure that all legal proceedings involving Mazi Nnamdi Kanu are conducted in full accordance with Nigeria’s constitutional obligations and international human rights commitments.”
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The document also acknowledged Kanu as a political figure known for advocating on behalf of communities in southeastern Nigeria and noted concerns expressed by legal observers and international bodies regarding his detention and transfer.
Meanwhile, Kanu’s lawyers have continued to express concerns over his incarceration in Sokoto Prison, arguing that the distance from Abuja where his appeal is expected to be heard could hinder legal preparations and access to counsel.
They have also raised concerns about his security while in custody.
The latest intervention by the US Congress is expected to further internationalise the debate surrounding Kanu’s imprisonment and place renewed pressure on Nigerian authorities as the legal battle over his conviction continues.
