Nigerian Robber Granted Right to Stay in UK Due to Mental Health Issues

A Nigerian man, convicted of armed robbery and drug dealing, has avoided deportation from the UK due to his severe mental health issues, which would not be adequately treated in Nigeria. A judge ruled that his belief in demonic possession contributed to the decision, highlighting the complexities surrounding human rights laws and deportation cases involving foreign criminals.

A Nigerian man who had been convicted of armed robbery and drug trafficking has been permitted to remain in the United Kingdom, despite facing a deportation order for over a decade. The unidentified individual suffers from significant mental health disorders, including forms of psychosis, which cause him to believe he is subject to demonic possession. A judge ruled that deporting him would violate his human rights since he would not receive adequate mental health care in Nigeria, where his condition might be misinterpreted as possession.

The convict was sentenced to seven years in prison in 2011 for armed robbery at a brothel and later received another sentence in 2018 for supplying crack cocaine. The report also indicates that he poses a high risk of serious harm to the public. Despite this, the judge, referencing his belief in being possessed, concluded that the lack of appropriate treatment in Nigeria made deportation unjustifiable.

According to assessments from medical professionals, the man experiences constant auditory hallucinations and trauma-related disorders, leading to a belief that he cannot move due to demons controlling him. This belief could increase the potential for societal misunderstanding regarding his mental health issues if he were to return to Nigeria.

Amnesty International highlighted the risk he would face in Nigeria, indicating that he could encounter significant stigma associated with mental illness and be targeted due to beliefs in witchcraft and demonic influences. The convict has expressed a desire to reform and engage in positive community activities, showcasing his commitment to leading a crime-free life.

This case aligns with recent instances in which foreign criminals have successfully leveraged human rights laws to avoid deportation from the UK. Notable examples include a criminal from Albania who evaded removal on the grounds of his child’s dietary preferences and a Pakistani offender whose deportation was deemed excessively harsh on his children.

In summary, a Nigerian man convicted of armed robbery and drug offenses has been granted the right to remain in the UK due to his severe mental health issues and potential mistreatment in Nigeria. The ruling underscores the complexities surrounding human rights and deportation cases, particularly for foreign criminals. As legal precedents evolve, this case exemplifies the challenges faced in balancing public safety and human rights obligations.

Original Source: www.gbnews.com