Nigerian Robber Avoids Deportation Due to Mental Health Considerations

A Nigerian man convicted of armed robbery and drug dealing has been permitted to remain in the UK due to mental health concerns, specifically his belief in demonic possession. A court ruled that deportation would violate his human rights as he would not receive adequate treatment in Nigeria. Despite his criminal history, he has expressed a desire to reform and engage positively within the community.

A Nigerian man, previously convicted of armed robbery and drug dealing, has successfully avoided deportation from Britain due to his alleged mental health issues. Authorities had ordered his removal back in 2014, but a recent court decision determined that deportation would violate his human rights, given his belief in demonic possession, which hinders his mental health treatment in Nigeria.

The individual, whose identity is protected for legal reasons, has a history of psychosis and claims to hear voices continuously. Medical professionals have described his condition as involving trauma-related disorders with psychotic features, including intrusive memories and nightmares. As a result, the court recognized that returning to Nigeria would expose him to inadequate mental health care and possible mistreatment due to cultural beliefs about mental illness.

In a ruling led by Upper Tribunal Judge Stephen Smith, the court highlighted the convict’s specific treatment needs and noted that Nigerian society tends to attribute mental health issues to demonic forces. This judgment underscores concerns for his well-being if he were to return home, as he would be at risk of further stigmatization and harm.

Despite his criminal record, which includes a seven-year prison sentence for robbery in 2011 and a subsequent conviction for drug trafficking in 2018, the convict has reportedly expressed a desire to rehabilitate. He has engaged in regular gym activities and volunteer work and currently resides within the community while receiving treatment for his addiction.

This case is part of a broader pattern where foreign nationals use human rights provisions to avoid deportation, demonstrating the ongoing legal dilemmas faced by authorities in balancing public safety with individual rights. This incident reveals how certain complex mental health issues intersect with legal rulings, revealing the intricacies of immigration law in the UK.

In summary, a Nigerian man convicted of serious crimes has evaded deportation from the UK due to mental health concerns, particularly his belief in demonic possession, which would complicate his treatment in Nigeria. The court ultimately prioritized his human rights and mental health needs over public safety concerns, highlighting the challenges faced in balancing legal directives and humanitarian considerations. This case reflects the growing trend of individuals utilizing human rights laws to remain in the UK despite prior convictions.

Original Source: www.gbnews.com