Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu called on the United States to make its deportation system for Nigerians more humane. She reiterated that deportation ought not to lead to undue trauma.
She questioned how many deported Nigerians have dependents at home. In her opinion, there are about 201 Nigerians in U.S. immigration detention facilities, of whom 85 are scheduled for deportation.
1. Address Emotional and Financial Impact on Families.
Many deportees send money home to support their families. Their sudden return can cause hardship. Odumegwu-Ojukwu called for measures to help families adjust to the financial changes.
2. Treated Deportees with Dignity Ensure.
She noted that deportation must not be traumatic. The non-criminal deportees must not be treated as criminals. The process ought to be respectful and fair.
3. Address Emotional and Financial Impact on Families.
Look after the Economic and Psychological Effects on Families Most deportees send money to their families. Their return is inconvenient. Odumegwu-Ojukwu asked that there should be means by which the family could adapt to the new finances.
4. Clarify U.S. Visa Policies for Nigerians.
She also raised concerns about the possible suspension of the Drop Box Visa System. This system allows Nigerians to renew visas without in-person interviews. She urged the U.S. to clarify its stance to ease public concerns.
5. Protect Nigerian Students Studying in the U.S.
With over 14,000 Nigerian students studying in the U.S., their families are worried about possible policy changes affecting student visas. She urged the U.S. government to ensure students are not caught up in deportation policies.
6. Continue Humanitarian Aid Programs.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu highlighted concerns over the ongoing review of USAID programs. Many Nigerian communities depend on these programs for healthcare, education, and basic needs. She appealed for their continuation.
7. Improve Coordination Between Governments.
She called for better communication between Nigeria and the U.S. on deportation matters. This will ensure that policies are fair and transparent.
8. Ensure Deportees Are Returned to Safe Locations.
The U.S. indicated that deportees will be taken to Lagos. However, Odumegwu-Ojukwu called for consideration of alternative return sites, i.e., Abuja and Port Harcourt, where the deportees have family support.
9. Review Deportation Criteria.
America promised deportations will focus on convicted felons and immigration law violators. She urged America to carefully screen each case to ensure no one is unfairly targeted.
10. Strengthen Trade and Diplomatic Relations
In discussing deportation, Odumegwu-Ojukwu called for increased trade relations between Nigeria and the U.S. She reminded both countries would benefit from more powerful economic ties.
Conclusion
Odumegwu-Ojukwu’s call for reform is crucial in ensuring that deportation policies are fair and humane. To access more documents visit Genderpedia.ng/shop.
References
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