Nigerian Armed Robber Avoids Deportation Due to Mental Health Concerns

A Nigerian armed robber diagnosed with psychosis has avoided deportation to Nigeria, as a judge ruled he would be seen as ‘possessed’ there. The man has a history of violent crime and substantial mental health issues. His belief in being possessed has contributed to concerns about his treatment in Nigeria, leading to his continued stay in the UK despite serious criminal charges.

A Nigerian armed robber, diagnosed with psychosis, has successfully avoided deportation to Nigeria due to concerns he would be seen as ‘possessed’ in his home country. The individual, convicted for armed robbery in 2011 and subsequently for supplying crack cocaine, had faced a deportation order since April 2014 but appealed based on human rights grounds.

This decision highlights the use of human rights laws by foreign criminals, with similar cases involving claims that deportation would adversely affect personal circumstances. A judge ruled that the criminal’s belief in possession increases the risk of mistreatment if returned to Nigeria.

Reports indicated that individuals in his condition are often subjected to dangerous perceptions in Nigeria regarding mental illness. Mental health professionals corroborated that the man suffers from severe trauma-related disorders, affecting his mental state and social functioning, which were factored into the judge’s decision to permit him to remain in the UK.

Expressing a desire to reform, the individual stated, “I really want to stay away from crime… I want to live a normal life.” He has been actively involved in community activities and maintaining a fitness regimen. Experts voiced concerns over the implications of the ruling, emphasizing the necessity for the UK to consider its responsibilities to manage the mental health needs of serious offenders from abroad.

Alp Mehmet from Migration Watch UK criticized the ruling, querying, “Why should we as a country, be picking up the health problems of people from other countries who have committed serious crime?” The implications of this case could trigger a review of similar cases, potentially leading to a broader discussion on the intersection of immigration, mental health, and criminal justice in the UK.

This ruling underscores the complexities of deportation laws as they intersect with human rights considerations, especially regarding the treatment of mentally ill offenders. It raises significant questions about the responsibilities of the UK in dealing with foreign nationals with criminal backgrounds, particularly in the context of mental health treatment and public safety. As officials reflect on this case, it may prompt further scrutiny on how similar appeals are evaluated and the potential implications for immigration policy moving forward.

Original Source: www.telegraph.co.uk