Nigerian Man Secures Deportation Appeal in Ireland, Seeks Protection

A Nigerian man in his 30s has successfully appealed a deportation order issued by Irish authorities, allowing him to apply for international protection. The man previously fled Nigeria in 2011 after being targeted for his involvement in same-sex activities. His initial asylum application was submitted to the International Protection Office (IPO) on November 2, 2020, but was rejected.

Following the IPO’s decision, the International Protection Appeals Tribunal (IPAT) upheld the rejection, leading to a deportation order being issued on June 18, 2022. The man was required to leave Ireland within a month, resulting in his deportation in May 2023.

Upon returning to Nigeria, he claimed that local police were actively searching for him due to his sexual orientation. His previous evidence had not been deemed credible by IPAT, but upon his return to Ireland, he renewed his appeal. Under Nigeria’s Same-Sex Marriage (Prohibition) Act 2014, individuals engaging in same-sex relationships face penalties of up to 14 years in prison.

In his renewed appeal, the man highlighted the dangers he faced in Nigeria and provided further evidence from his legal counsel, including corroboration from other sources. The tribunal accepted a second police report from November 19, 2022, confirming that he was indeed being sought in connection with same-sex activities.

The tribunal’s ruling indicated that the man was unable to present critical facts during his initial application through “no fault of his own.” Consequently, he has been granted the opportunity to reapply for international protection.

Currently residing in Co Monaghan, he works at a chicken farm and has received character references from his employers. Speaking anonymously to RTÉ’s Morning Ireland, he recounted his deportation experience, stating, “They did not take me to the deportation centre. They took me to the prison, so it was a very, very bad experience there.”

He described the confusion he faced during the deportation process, asking the authorities about his offense. “They said it’s not their fault … they’re just doing their job, so they took us to the airport,” he noted.

The man expressed ongoing concerns for his safety in Nigeria, saying, “If I want to go outside I have to wear a hoody and cover my face using a face mask. It’s a very, very bad experience for me, honestly.”

The case highlights the ongoing risks faced by individuals in Nigeria due to their sexual orientation and the complexities of seeking asylum in foreign countries. As the man prepares to navigate the international protection process once again, his situation serves as a poignant reminder of the struggles many face in seeking safety from persecution.