The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has welcomed remarks made by United States Congressman John James regarding the detention and legal proceedings involving its leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, describing the intervention as a major boost to its campaign for his release.
In a statement issued on Friday and signed by its spokesman, Comrade Emma Powerful, the group said the Republican lawmaker from Michigan spoke on the floor of the United States House of Representatives, where he raised concerns about the treatment of Christians in Nigeria and Kanu's ongoing legal case. Reports indicate that Rep. James has previously sponsored a U.S. House resolution urging Nigeria to ensure Kanu receives constitutional protections, legal representation, medical care and humane treatment.
According to NaijaBlog, IPOB described the congressman's intervention as a "historic moment," arguing that Kanu's case has now attracted significant international attention beyond Nigeria.
The group claimed Congressman James criticized what it described as irregularities in Kanu's trial and called for either a fresh trial conducted in line with Nigeria's Constitution or his immediate and unconditional release.
IPOB also commended the United States Congress for providing a platform to discuss issues surrounding Kanu's detention and the persecution of Christians in Nigeria. The group further praised its representatives in the United States, saying their diplomatic engagements had helped bring the matter before American lawmakers.
The separatist movement maintained that Kanu has become "a global symbol of injustice" and insisted that international political and legal support for its cause is growing.
NaijaBlog reports that IPOB reiterated its demand for Kanu's immediate and unconditional release, while expressing confidence that international attention on the matter would continue to increase.
The group concluded by praising its leadership and members for what it described as their commitment to pursuing its objectives, reaffirming its position that the campaign for a Biafra referendum would continue.
Kanu, who is facing terrorism-related charges brought by the Nigerian government, has consistently denied the allegations against him. The Federal Government has maintained that the charges are lawful and should be resolved through the judicial process, while U.S. lawmakers have previously urged that any proceedings comply with Nigeria's constitutional guarantees and international human rights standards.