US to deport 201 Nigerians, clears 85 for immediate repatriation, says ambassador Mills

DDM News

The United States has listed 201 Nigerians for deportation as part of a broader crackdown on illegal immigration.

Of the 201 individuals, 85 have already been cleared for immediate repatriation.

This move has raised concerns about the welfare and dignity of those being sent back to Nigeria.

According to Diaspora digital media (DDM) reports, Richard Mills, the US Ambassador to Nigeria, made this announcement during a courtesy visit to Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, the Nigeria’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs.

The visit took place at the Tafawa Balewa House in Abuja.

Mills clarified that the deportation process would involve returning the individuals to Lagos.

There would be no consideration for other locations such as Port Harcourt or Abuja.

Mills explained that the first group of deportees would include convicted prisoners.

These individuals had committed crimes in the United States and are currently serving time in US prisons.

However, the deportation list also includes individuals who violated US immigration laws.

These individuals had appealed their deportation orders, but their appeals were denied.

Yet, they remained in the US, continuing to face deportation for immigration violations.

The matter of deportation was discussed with concerns raised by both Nigerian and US officials.

During the meeting, Minister Odumegwu-Ojukwu expressed her desire for a more dignified process for Nigerians returning.

She stressed the importance of ensuring that repatriated individuals are treated with respect.

She specifically pointed out those who had not committed violent crimes.

“We want a situation where there will be commitments from the new administration in the US,” Odumegwu-Ojukwu said.

“If there will be repatriation, we want a dignified return,” she added.

The Minister also highlighted the emotional and financial implications of the deportations for Nigerian families.

According to Odumegwu-Ojukwu, many of the individuals are breadwinners for their families in Nigeria.

Their deportation could have a significant impact on their families, especially children whose education depends on them.

There are concerns about how the deported Nigerians will manage their assets and personal affairs before leaving the US.

With 85 Nigerians already cleared for deportation, Odumegwu-Ojukwu’s office has requested assurances they can settle their affairs.

The Minister stressed that deporting individuals without allowing them the opportunity to manage their assets would be traumatic.

This is particularly true for those who had not committed violent crimes.

In a statement issued on Sunday, February 16, Magnus Eze, the media aide to the Minister, conveyed these concerns.

He emphasized the need for careful consideration of the emotional toll on those facing deportation.

The issue of dignified repatriation was central to the discussions between the Nigerian Minister and the US Ambassador.

The deportations are part of the broader immigration enforcement policy under the Trump administration.

This policy has focused on cracking down on illegal immigration.

While the United States has faced criticism for its harsh stance on immigration, repatriation of violators remains a priority.

For many Nigerians, the deportation process represents a deeply challenging and humiliating experience.

As the repatriation of 85 individuals begins, the Nigerian government’s call for a dignified process for its citizens continues.

The overarching message remains clear: Nigeria is advocating for the humane and respectful treatment of its citizens.

The government is focused on allowing deportees to handle their affairs before returning home.

This situation underscores the complex dynamics between immigration policies in the United States and the impact on Nigerian families.

It raises questions about the broader implications of immigration laws on individuals’ lives.

The Nigerian government’s ongoing dialogue with the US reflects its efforts to balance national interests.

At the same time, it ensures the well-being of its citizens caught in this complex situation.

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