A Nigerian man convicted of armed robbery and drug dealing has successfully appealed against his deportation from the UK, with a judge ruling that returning him to Nigeria could expose him to harmful societal attitudes regarding mental illness and possession.
The man, whose identity remains undisclosed for legal reasons, has a criminal history dating back over a decade, including a 2011 armed robbery conviction and a 2018 jail term for supplying crack cocaine. Despite a deportation order issued in 2014, he remains in the UK on human rights grounds, citing fears that his mental health condition could be misinterpreted as possession by demonic forces in Nigeria.
Legal Battle and Mental Health Concerns
The man has been diagnosed with a trauma-related disorder with psychotic features, characterized by intrusive memories, nightmares, and beliefs that demonic forces are controlling his mind. A doctor’s report further revealed that he experiences episodes of paralysis upon waking, which he attributes to supernatural interference.
During his appeal, Amnesty International submitted a report warning that his condition could lead to stigmatization, mistreatment, or even harm in Nigeria, where supernatural explanations for mental illness remain prevalent. The report highlighted the substantial risk of him being identified as suffering from demonic forces, which could make him a target.
Judge Stephen Smith, who presided over the case, ruled that a previous judge had made an “error of law” in assessing the risk of deportation. He emphasized that the man’s own belief in possession, combined with limited mental health care in Nigeria, could put him in danger.
Concerns Over Public Safety
Despite avoiding deportation, the man is still regarded as a high risk to the public, according to expert evaluations. His history of violent crime and drug addiction raises concerns, and while he no longer resides in a secure mental health hospital, authorities continue to monitor him.
In court, the man expressed a desire to reform, stating, “I really want to stay away from crime. I don’t want to get into that predicament again … I want to live a normal life.” His key worker testified that he frequents the gym five to six days a week and volunteers once a week as part of his rehabilitation efforts.
Debate Over the Ruling
The decision to allow the man to remain in the UK has sparked debate, particularly from immigration advocates and policymakers.
Alp Mehmet, chairman of Migration Watch UK, criticized the ruling, questioning why the UK should bear the responsibility of caring for foreign criminals with severe health issues.
“Why should we, as a country, be picking up the health problems of people from other nations who have committed serious crimes?” Mehmet argued. “It shows serious issues with the law.”
While the ruling allows the man to stay in the UK for now, his case is far from over, with a new hearing set to determine his long-term status.
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