Delegate From US Raises Fresh Alarm On Visit To Nnamdi Kanu in Sokoto Prison

— Nnamdi Kanu

By Adeola Idris

A high-profile delegation from the United States has paid a visit to Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), at the Sokoto Medium Security Custodial Centre, drawing renewed attention to his ongoing detention and legal battle.

The delegation was led by Lady Blessing Ijeoma, a United States–based advocate. Other members of the team included Dr. Sylvester Onyia, President of the American Veterans of Igbo Descent (AVID), and Mr. Evans Nwankwo, Chairman of the Ambassadors for Self Determination.

Nnamdi Kanu is currently facing terrorism-related charges and has been in the custody of Nigeria’s Department of State Services (DSS) since June 2021, following his controversial arrest and return to Nigeria from Kenya. His continued detention has remained a sensitive national and international issue, especially among members of the Igbo diaspora and human rights groups.

Kanu’s transfer to the Sokoto Medium Security Custodial Centre, far from the South-East region and Abuja where his trial is being handled, has also raised concerns among his supporters and legal team. They have repeatedly questioned the legality and fairness of his detention conditions.

Speaking after the visit, Lady Blessing Ijeoma said the mission was driven by humanitarian concern and solidarity.

“Our main reason for coming was to see him personally, to know how he is doing, and to show support,” she said. “We believe in peaceful advocacy and the protection of human dignity.”

While details of their discussion with Kanu were not made public, Ijeoma noted that the delegation would compile its observations into a report to be shared with their respective organizations in the United States.
The presence of Dr. Sylvester Onyia, representing American Veterans of Igbo Descent, highlights the continued involvement of the Igbo diaspora in Kanu’s case. Similarly, the participation of Mr. Evans Nwankwo of the Ambassadors for Self Determination reflects ongoing international advocacy efforts calling for Kanu’s release.

The visit is expected to reignite public debate over Kanu’s detention, his trial, and broader concerns about human rights and due process. His legal team has consistently argued that his arrest and continued detention violate both Nigerian and international laws, while several human rights groups and political figures from the South-East have also called for his release.

As reactions continue to pour in, the visit by the US delegation has once again placed Nnamdi Kanu’s case at the center of national and international attention.