A member of the U.S. Congress, Representative John James, has declared that the prolonged detention and recent life sentence of IPOB leader Nnamdi Kanu is further evidence of religious persecution and weakening democratic institutions in Nigeria.

James made the remarks on Thursday during a public hearing held by the U.S. House Subcommittee on Africa, which met to review President Donald Trump’s decision to redesignate Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern (CPC) over religious freedom violations.

The hearing in Washington, D.C. brought together U.S. State Department officials, religious leaders, and Nigerian representatives.

“Kanu’s Detention Shows the Law Is Optional in Nigeria” — John James

Rep. James argued that Kanu’s case reflects broader patterns of repression:

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

He noted that:

In 2022, Nigeria’s Court of Appeal dismissed all charges against Kanu and ordered his release.

The UN Working Group on Arbitrary Detention also demanded his unconditional freedom.

Despite this, Kanu has remained in solitary confinement, with reports of worsening health.

He recently had to represent himself in court, raising concerns about his well-being and access to legal counsel.

James said these developments show a troubling breakdown in rule of law:

“Nigeria has signaled that the law is optional and that targeting Christians is fair game.”

Life Sentence Hours Before the Hearing

The U.S. congressman expressed shock that Kanu was convicted on all charges and sentenced to life imprisonment just hours before the U.S. hearing—even as many Nigerians and lawmakers had pleaded for his release.

The development, he said, reinforces claims that Nigeria’s justice system is becoming increasingly politicized, particularly in cases involving ethnic and religious minorities.

Why the Case Matters to Washington

Nnamdi Kanu’s treatment has been repeatedly cited by international rights groups as an example of:

Religious discrimination,

Abuse of human rights,

Political targeting, and

Failure to comply with court rulings.

With Nigeria now back on the U.S. CPC list, the case is expected to feature heavily in future diplomatic and human rights discussions between both nations.