The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has welcomed the intervention of United States Congressman John James in the case involving its leader, Nnamdi Kanu, describing it as a “historic moment” in its campaign for his release.
In a statement issued on Wednesday by its spokesman, Emma Powerful, the group commended the Republican lawmaker from Michigan for raising concerns about Kanu’s trial and the security situation in Nigeria on the floor of the United States House of Representatives.
According to IPOB, the congressman described Nigeria as one of the most dangerous places in the world for Christians and highlighted the activities of Boko Haram and armed bandits, which he alleged had continued with little accountability.
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The group also said the US lawmaker questioned Kanu’s prosecution and called for a trial that complies with Nigeria’s constitutional provisions, including access to legal representation, medical care and humane detention conditions, or his unconditional release.
Describing the intervention as unprecedented, IPOB claimed it marked a significant milestone in its international advocacy efforts.
“This is a historic moment. Apart from the great Nelson Mandela, no other African leader in modern times has received such direct spotlight and advocacy on the floor of the United States Congress as Onyendu Mazi Nnamdi Kanu,” the statement said.
The group attributed the development to what it described as the commitment of its leadership and members, particularly the current Directorate of State, saying their diplomatic engagements had continued to attract international attention.
IPOB commended Congressman James for what it called his courage and also appreciated its supporters in the United States for their efforts in drawing attention to Kanu’s case.
The separatist group maintained that Kanu’s trial had attracted growing international scrutiny and insisted that the matter had gone beyond being a domestic issue.
“Onyendu Mazi Nnamdi Kanu is no longer a Nigerian internal matter. He has become a global symbol of injustice, and free voices across the world are rising,” IPOB stated.
The group further expressed confidence that international support for its position would continue to grow, reiterating its demand for Kanu’s immediate and unconditional release.
IPOB also said it remained committed to pursuing its objective through what it described as lawful and diplomatic means while urging its members to remain united.