Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu Demands Dignified Return for Nigerians Affected by Deportation Plans
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Abuja, Nigeria – Authorities in the United States have unveiled plans to deport 201 Nigerian nationals, including those convicted of crimes and individuals with immigration violations, as part of a broader campaign initiated by former President Donald Trump’s crackdown on illegal immigration.
During a meeting at the Tafawa Balewa House in Abuja, US Ambassador to Nigeria Richard Mills informed Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu that 85 Nigerians had already been cleared for deportation.
In her response, Bianca expressed deep concern over the deportation process, calling for a respectful and dignified repatriation for the affected Nigerians. She emphasized the emotional and financial toll this would take on their families, particularly those relying on these nationals for school fees and survival.
“The Trauma of Immediate Deportation”
Bianca questioned whether deportees would be given enough time to sort out their personal affairs or if they would simply be sent back without any regard for their circumstances.
“This is a distressing situation, particularly for those who have not committed violent crimes,” she noted, stressing the need for careful handling of their return to Nigeria.
Visa Policy and US-Nigeria Relations Under Scrutiny
The minister also raised alarms over the suspension of the Drop Box Visa System, which could make it harder for Nigerians to apply for visas to visit the US. Bianca called on the US government to provide clarity on this new policy, especially since it could affect more than 14,000 Nigerian students currently pursuing education in the US.
Further, she sought assurances about the future of USAID operations in Nigeria. NGOs are concerned about the continuation of humanitarian programs and aid in light of the policy review. Bianca appealed to the US to ensure that the country’s poor and vulnerable communities are not left behind.
US Confirms Deportation of Criminals, Immigration Violators
In response, Ambassador Mills confirmed that the first group of deportees would include convicted prisoners and individuals who had violated US immigration laws. He explained that the deportees would be sent to Lagos, without the possibility of other locations for their repatriation.
Ambassador Mills assured that the US government would clarify its stance on the Drop Box Visa System and the future of USAID in Nigeria in the near future.
