Outrage Builds! FG Reacts To UK Move To Deport Foreign Offenders To Nigeria

The Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has rejected claims that Nigeria’s recent migration agreement with the UK would allow foreign criminals to be sent into the country.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

The agreement was signed during President Bola Tinubu’s recent state visit to the United Kingdom. Following the announcement, some Nigerians raised concerns, suggesting the deal could permit the UK to deport foreign criminals or asylum seekers to Nigeria.

However, speaking on Politics Today on Tuesday, Tunji-Ojo clarified that the agreement strictly applies to Nigerian nationals residing in the UK without valid immigration status.

He explained that Article 7 of the agreement focuses on cooperation between both countries to ensure the safe and dignified return of their citizens who no longer have the legal right to remain abroad. He dismissed reports suggesting that criminals from other countries would be transferred to Nigeria, stressing that such claims are false and unacceptable.

According to him, the current administration would never approve any arrangement that allows the dumping of foreign prisoners in Nigeria. Instead, the agreement is limited to Nigerians who have overstayed their visas or are otherwise undocumented in the UK.

The Minister further assured Nigerians that there is no cause for alarm, noting that the agreement is based on mutual respect and reciprocity, which are standard principles in international relations. He emphasized that the government is focused on addressing its own challenges rather than shifting problems elsewhere.

Tunji-Ojo also pointed out that irregular migration is a global issue affecting not just the UK or the United States, but many countries, including Nigeria. He stressed that international cooperation is essential to effectively manage the problem.

He added that the government has been transparent about the agreement, even though the full document has not been publicly released. A summary highlighting its key provisions was shared by presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga.

Speaking on the benefits of the deal, the Minister referenced Article 8, which guarantees that all returnees will be treated with dignity and in line with their fundamental human rights.

He concluded by describing the agreement as a balanced arrangement, stating that both Nigeria and the UK stand to benefit equally from the partnership.