US Congress introduces resolution urging fair trial for Nnamdi Kanu

The United States House of Representatives has introduced a resolution urging the Nigerian government to ensure that all legal proceedings involving the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, are conducted in line with constitutional and international human rights standards.

The resolution, H.Res. 1321, was introduced on May 22, 2026, and was sighted on Tuesday. It is titled, “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.”

The measure was sponsored by Representative John James, who expressed concerns over the circumstances surrounding Kanu’s arrest in Nairobi, Kenya, in June 2021 and his transfer to Nigeria.

The resolution cited the July 20, 2022 opinion of the United Nations Working Group on Arbitrary Detention, which found that Kanu’s detention breached international human rights obligations and recommended his release alongside appropriate remedies.

It also highlighted concerns raised by legal observers, Kenyan courts and human rights groups over due process, access to legal representation and detention conditions.

According to the resolution, Kanu’s prolonged detention without adequate medical care has raised humanitarian concerns. It further stressed the importance of protecting freedom of expression, fair trial rights and the humane treatment of detainees under international law.

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The resolution reads in part, “Whereas Nnamdi Kanu is a political figure known for advocating on behalf of communities in southeastern Nigeria;

“Whereas Nnamdi Kanu has publicly expressed his views regarding political self-determination and governance through speech and advocacy;

“Whereas concerns have been raised by human rights organisations regarding due process, access to counsel, and conditions of detention;

“Whereas prolonged detention without adequate medical care raises serious humanitarian concerns;

“Whereas the protection of freedom of expression, fair trial rights, and humane treatment of detainees are fundamental principles recognized under international law, including the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights;

“Whereas the United States has a longstanding commitment to advocating for the protection of human rights and the rule of law globally.”

Kanu was convicted on seven terrorism-related charges on November 20, 2025, by Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court in Abuja following his trial after being brought to Nigeria from Kenya in June 2021.

Although prosecutors sought the death penalty, the court sentenced the IPOB leader to life imprisonment.