Release Nnamdi Kanu or Face Possible Aid Cuts, US Congressman Tells Nigerian Government

A United States Congressman, John James, has called on the Nigerian Government to either release the detained leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB, Nnamdi Kanu, or risk possible cuts to US assistance to Nigeria.

James, a Republican representing Michigan in the US House of Representatives, made the call while seeking support for House Resolution 1321, a measure he introduced on May 22.

The resolution, currently before the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, calls on Nigeria to ensure that all legal proceedings involving Kanu comply with the Nigerian Constitution and internationally recognised human rights standards.

The US lawmaker urged the Nigerian Government to either grant Kanu a fresh trial conducted in line with constitutional provisions or release him unconditionally.

James also called for Kanu to have unrestricted access to legal representation, adequate medical care and humane detention conditions pending the determination of his case.

He further linked the issue to wider concerns over the treatment of Christians in Nigeria and criticised the Federal Government’s handling of attacks allegedly carried out by extremist groups.

“America gives billions to Nigeria. We will not continue to fund a Christian genocide,” James said while urging fellow lawmakers to support his resolution.

The congressman’s comments have been welcomed by IPOB, whose spokesperson, Emma Powerful, described the development as a significant step in the campaign for Kanu’s release.

Kanu was sentenced to life imprisonment in November 2025 following his conviction on terrorism related charges. He is currently serving his sentence at Sokoto Prison while pursuing an appeal against the judgment.

The Federal Government has maintained that Kanu’s prosecution followed due legal process and that the matter remains before the courts.

As of the time of filing this report, the Presidency had not issued an official response to the latest comments by the US lawmaker.