Former Senator Shehu Sani Advises Nigerians in US to Return Home Voluntarily Amid Deportation Fears
Former Nigerian senator and human rights activist, Shehu Sani, has issued a stern warning to Nigerians residing in the United States who are reportedly going into hiding due to fears of deportation. Sani urged them to abandon what he described as a futile strategy and return to Nigeria voluntarily to avoid potential arrest and worsening circumstances.
Hiding Not an Option as ICE Activity Increases
Reacting to reports of heightened Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operations under the Trump administration, Sani emphasized that attempts to evade authorities would only exacerbate the situation for undocumented migrants. He stated via social media platform X that hiding is not a viable option, noting that even US citizens sometimes face scrutiny in such enforcement climates.
"The thousands of Nigerians reportedly going into hiding in the US out of fear of deportation by ICE should respect themselves and return home to avoid arrest," Sani declared. "In a situation where sometimes even US citizens are not spared, hiding is not an option."
Self-Deportation Reflects Political Reality
Sani, who represented Kaduna Central in the Eighth Senate, praised those choosing to leave the US on their own accord, stating they have correctly assessed the political climate. He highlighted the determination of the current US administration to enforce strict immigration policies, with President Donald Trump having three more years in office to implement his agenda.
"Those who are self-deporting have read and understood the reality," Sani remarked. "Trump has three more years for everyone."
Trump Administration's Hardline Immigration Posture
These comments come amid heightened anxiety among migrant communities following renewed enforcement actions linked to President Trump's stringent immigration stance. The administration has pledged to deport millions of undocumented migrants and expand removals to third countries, with the US government reportedly engaging in talks with several African nations to accept deportees.
Key developments include:
- Ghana has emerged as one of the first African countries to publicly confirm cooperation with the United States on deportation matters.
- Recent months have seen Washington deport five individuals to Eswatini and eight to South Sudan.
- Rwanda received seven deportees in August after agreeing to accept up to 250 migrants from the US.
Pressure on West African Leaders
Pressure on African governments intensified on July 9 when President Trump hosted five West African leaders at the White House. According to sources, a major objective was to persuade these leaders to accept deportees from third countries. While Ghana's President John Mahama was not present, the regional push has sparked concern among migrant advocates who warn returnees may face safety, economic, and social challenges.
Specific Nigerian Deportation Figures
In related developments, reports indicate that no fewer than 201 Nigerians are set to be deported from the United States under Trump's immigration policy, with 85 cleared for immediate removal. US Ambassador to Nigeria, Richard Mills Jr., disclosed that the first batch includes individuals serving jail terms in US prisons, and deportees would be taken to Lagos upon return.
Despite criticism from human rights groups, the Trump administration continues to pursue high-profile deportations, arguing the policy serves as a deterrent to illegal immigration. The situation remains fluid as enforcement actions escalate, leaving many Nigerian migrants in the US facing difficult decisions about their future.
