In a controversial decision, a Nigerian criminal who poses a significant risk to public safety has been allowed to remain in the UK, despite being ordered for deportation more than a decade ago.
The man, whose identity remains undisclosed due to legal reasons, was convicted of armed robbery at a brothel in 2011.
After serving his sentence and being released, he reoffended and was incarcerated again for the supply of crack cocaine.
Human Rights Appeal Blocks Deportation
Although the deportation order was made over ten years ago, the convict remains in the UK due to a successful appeal based on human rights grounds.
His legal team argued that returning him to Nigeria would subject him to a life of persecution, as his mental health issues are often interpreted in his home country as signs of demonic possession.
A doctor’s report revealed that the man hears voices constantly and suffers from trauma-related psychosis, which he believes is caused by being “possessed.”
Mental Health and Drug Addiction Factor into Legal Decision
Judges ruled against his deportation, citing concerns about the lack of adequate mental health care in Nigeria to address his specific needs.
The man has been in and out of mental health institutions during his time in the UK, receiving treatment for both his addiction to crack cocaine and his psychological disorders.
Experts emphasized that the “highly prescriptive treatment environment” he receives in the UK could not be replicated in Nigeria, leading to fears that his condition might worsen if he were returned.
Amnesty International Raises Concerns About Demonic Beliefs
A report from Amnesty International highlighted the danger the man would face if sent back to Nigeria, noting that his belief in possession could lead to him being targeted by locals.
According to the report, his condition could be perceived as a sign of demonic forces, which might result in him being subjected to further harm.
The court acknowledged these risks, with judge Stephen Smith noting that his belief would likely lead others to view his illness as a manifestation of possession, further isolating him from support.
Rehabilitation Efforts and Public Safety Concerns
Despite his claims that he wants to distance himself from crime, the man’s rehabilitation efforts, including regular gym attendance and volunteering, have not convinced experts of his low risk to public safety.
He has been deemed to remain a significant threat, raising questions about the balance between individual human rights and the protection of the public from dangerous individuals.
A Similar Case Highlights Ongoing Debate Around Deportation and Human Rights
In another case that has sparked debate, a convicted paedophile, identified only as OS, has also been allowed to stay in the UK due to his human rights.
OS was convicted of a sex attack on a young girl in 2009 and served three years in prison in the US before moving to Jamaica.
There, he reportedly continued to seek out young girls, marrying a teenager and having a child with her.
Judge Rules in Favor of Paedophile’s Right to Join Family in the UK
OS’s case gained attention when a judge ruled that blocking him from reuniting with his family in the UK would infringe on his human rights.
His wife and child, who moved to the UK in 2015, were cited as a significant factor in the decision.
Despite his past criminal actions, the judge concluded that it would violate his rights to prevent him from living with his family in the UK.
Public Outcry Over Human Rights Decisions in Criminal Cases
Both cases have raised concerns about the balance between protecting public safety and upholding human rights.
Critics argue that these decisions may undermine efforts to deport foreign criminals and question whether the system is too lenient when it comes to individuals with serious criminal histories.
The Home Office, however, remains committed to ensuring that foreign criminals are swiftly removed when possible.
The Home Office’s Response to Ongoing Deportation Issues
The Home Office has reiterated its stance on deporting foreign criminals, emphasizing that it is in the public’s best interest to remove individuals who pose a threat.
While these specific cases remain in legal limbo, the department continues to pursue measures aimed at strengthening the deportation process for foreign nationals convicted of serious crimes.
A Growing Debate on Deportation and Human Rights
These cases highlight the ongoing debate over deportation laws, with tensions between protecting public safety and respecting human rights at the forefront of legal discussions.
As the UK continues to navigate these complex issues, it remains to be seen how future rulings will balance these competing interests.