US Rep highlights religious persecution in Nnamdi Kanu Case, citing his continued detention despite court orders and international calls for release

Religious persecution in Nnamdi Kanu Case has been raised as a critical concern by US Representative John James, a member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee.

Also read: Nnamdi Kanu Convicted on Three Terrorism Charges

James made the remarks on Thursday during a public hearing of the US House Subcommittee on Africa in Washington, DC, convened to review President Donald Trump’s recent redesignation of Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern.

The hearing brought together senior US State Department officials and Nigerian religious leaders to examine issues of human rights, religious freedom, and political repression in Nigeria.

According to James, the detention of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), illustrates a troubling pattern of religious persecution linked to political repression.

“In 2022, Nigeria’s Court of Appeals struck down the charges against him and ordered his release,” James said.

“The UN Working Group for Arbitrary Detention also called for his unconditional release, yet he remains in solitary confinement under deteriorating health conditions and recently had to represent himself in court.”

The lawmaker further warned that the Nigerian government’s approach signals that the law is applied selectively, with Christians disproportionately targeted.

“Just hours ago, despite the pleas of Nigerian citizens and lawmakers, Kanu was convicted on all charges,” he added.

Reports confirmed that on Thursday, Nnamdi Kanu was sentenced to life imprisonment on terrorism charges, a move that has reignited debate over human rights and religious freedoms in Nigeria.

Also read: Nnamdi Kanu Detention Sparks Global Protest in Abuja

James’ testimony highlights mounting international scrutiny and underscores calls for the Nigerian government to adhere to due process and safeguard the rights of all citizens.