The United States House of Representatives has urged the Federal Government of Nigeria to ensure that all legal proceedings involving the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, Nnamdi Kanu, are conducted in line with constitutional provisions 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 raised concerns over Kanu’s continued detention, the circumstances surrounding his transfer from Kenya to Nigeria in 2021, and 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 the South-East and has publicly expressed views on political self-determination and governance.
The lawmakers referenced concerns raised by legal observers and international bodies regarding Kanu’s arrest in Nairobi, Kenya, in June 2021 and his subsequent transfer to Nigeria.
They noted that questions had been raised about whether the transfer complied with applicable legal standards and international obligations.
The resolution also cited findings by the United Nations Working Group on Arbitrary Detention, which in a July 2022 opinion concluded that Kanu’s detention violated international human rights obligations and called for his release and the provision of remedies.
The lawmakers further noted that courts in Kenya had issued rulings concerning the legality of Kanu’s transfer to Nigeria.
The resolution highlighted concerns by human rights organisations over due process, access to legal representation and conditions of detention, warning that prolonged detention without adequate medical care raises serious humanitarian concerns.
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 lawmakers also encouraged Nigerian authorities to guarantee Kanu consistent access to legal counsel, necessary medical care and humane conditions of detention.
In addition, the resolution called on 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.
