Irish Community Rallies Against Deportation of Nigerian Family to South Africa
At least 300 demonstrators gathered outside the Department of Justice in Ireland to protest the planned deportation of a Nigerian family from their south Dublin community to South Africa. The protest, which occurred on February 10, 2026, has led to a four-week delay in the deportation originally scheduled for February 12, 2026.
Family Faces Deportation Despite Community Integration
Titilayo Oluwakemi Oyekanmi and her three sons—Samuel, Joseph, and Genesis—arrived in Ireland from South Africa in 2023. Their asylum application was subsequently rejected, resulting in a deportation order issued last year. Ms. Oyekanmi expressed grave concerns about returning to South Africa, citing xenophobic threats and fears for her sons' safety. She detailed past incidents, including alleged kidnapping attempts and discrimination against Nigerians in South Africa.
Supporters of the family emphasize their successful integration into Irish society. The children, aged between five and 18, have enrolled in local schools and joined sports clubs. Joseph Oyekanmi, a 14-year-old student at Gonzaga College, is particularly noted as a talented athlete and rugby player who excels academically.
Community and Legal Advocacy Intensifies
Protest organizers, including Cara McGuinness—mother of Joseph's school friend Charlie—handed letters to the department on February 10, 2026, urging the reversal of the deportation decision. McGuinness described Joseph as "an incredible sportsperson" and "kind and heartfelt," arguing that the family enriches the community.
Stephen Kirwan, Partner and Head of Immigration Law at KOD Lions solicitors, has represented the family for eight to ten months. He contends that the minister should reconsider the deportation, citing overlooked factors such as the family's integration. Kirwan highlighted that hundreds of students and parents have voiced support, presenting what he calls "exceptional circumstances."
Schoolmates Rally in Support
Joseph's classmates at Gonzaga College, previously unaware of his situation, joined the appeal. Charlie Donovan praised Joseph as a great friend and student, while Luca Conan noted his academic and personal contributions. Sam Kennedy and Jasper Gilmartin shared similar sentiments, emphasizing Joseph's welcoming nature and athletic dedication.
Ms. Oyekanmi, who holds a QQI Level 5 qualification in healthcare, aspires to work as a care assistant in Ireland. She asserts that her family seeks safety and opportunity, not benefits, and pleads with Justice Minister Jim O'Callaghan to allow them to remain.
Department of Justice Stance on International Protection
A spokesperson for the Department of Justice reiterated that individual cases cannot be commented on but affirmed the department's commitment to managing the international protection process efficiently. The statement outlined that applications are assessed independently by the International Protection Office and the International Protection Appeals Tribunal, in accordance with national and international law.
The department noted that individuals refused protection can request a review if circumstances change, with voluntary return programs offered as a preferred option before deportation orders are enforced. South Africa is classified as a safe country by the Irish State, which influenced the initial rejection of the family's asylum claim.
Julie Clements, manager of the Gathering Grounds Café in Kiltiernan where Ms. Oyekanmi volunteers, corroborated the family's claims of threats in South Africa, citing documentation of armed intimidation.
