The United States House of Representatives has called on the Federal Government of Nigeria to ensure that all legal proceedings involving the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, are conducted in line with constitutional and international human rights standards.
The call followed a resolution introduced by Congressman John James and referred to the appropriate House committee for consideration.
The resolution expressed concerns over Kanu’s continued detention, the circumstances surrounding his transfer from Kenya to Nigeria in June 2021, and broader issues relating to due process and detainees’ rights.
According to the lawmakers, 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 speech and advocacy.
The resolution noted that legal observers and international bodies have raised questions about whether Kanu’s transfer from Kenya to Nigeria complied with applicable legal standards and international obligations.
US lawmakers also referenced an opinion issued by the United Nations Working Group on Arbitrary Detention on July 20, 2022, which found that Kanu’s detention violated international human rights obligations and called for his release and the provision of remedies.
The resolution further cited rulings by Kenyan courts concerning the legality of Kanu’s transfer and highlighted concerns raised by human rights organisations regarding due process, access to legal representation and conditions of detention.
The lawmakers warned that prolonged detention without adequate medical care raises serious humanitarian concerns.
They stressed that the protection of freedom of expression, fair trial rights and humane treatment of detainees are fundamental principles recognised under international law, including the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights.
Consequently, the House urged the Nigerian government to ensure that all legal proceedings involving Kanu are conducted in full accordance with Nigeria’s constitutional obligations and international human rights commitments.
The resolution also encouraged Nigerian authorities to consider the findings of the UN Working Group on Arbitrary Detention and take appropriate steps consistent with those findings.
In addition, the lawmakers called on the government to guarantee Kanu consistent access to legal counsel, necessary medical care and humane conditions of detention.
The resolution further urged the US Secretary of State to engage with the Nigerian government on concerns relating to due process, detention conditions and respect for fundamental rights.
The lawmakers reaffirmed the United States’ commitment to the protection of human rights, freedom of expression and the rule of law worldwide.
