US Rep. John James Criticizes Nigeria Over Nnamdi Kanu’s Detention, Says ‘Law is Optional’

During a U.S. House Subcommittee hearing on Africa, Representative John James sharply criticized Nigeria over the detention and recent life sentence of Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) leader Nnamdi Kanu.

He described Kanu’s continued imprisonment as a clear example of religious persecution and political repression in the country.

The hearing, held in Washington, D.C., reviewed Nigeria’s designation as a Country of Particular Concern (CPC) for religious freedom. James, a former Africa Subcommittee Chairman and current member of the U.S. Energy and Commerce Committee, highlighted that Kanu remains imprisoned despite a 2022 Court of Appeals order for his release and a UN call for his freedom.

“Religious persecution is tied to political repression and weakening institutions in Nigeria. The detention of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu is a clear example,” James stated.

He further noted the judicial actions taken in Kanu’s favor:

• In 2022, Nigeria’s Court of Appeals struck down the charges against Kanu and ordered his release.
• The UN Working Group for Arbitrary Detention also called for his unconditional release.

Despite these interventions, Kanu remained in solitary confinement under deteriorating health conditions and had to represent himself in court. Just hours before his sentencing, James warned:

“Nigeria has signaled that the law is optional and targeting Christians is fair game. Today, despite the pleas of Nigerian citizens and lawmakers, Kanu was convicted on all charges and sentenced to life imprisonment.”