• President Barack Obama deported more undocumented immigrants than any other US president
• Undocumented Nigerians have been advised to avoid public spaces
David Arin, Jos
DAILY COURIER - As the United States continues to grapple with immigration policies under President Donald Trump, undocumented Nigerian immigrants are among those caught in the crosshairs of heightened deportation efforts.
Dr. Kazeem Bello, a founding member of the Nigeria in the Diaspora Organisation (NIDO) in the US, sheds light on the situation, offering a nuanced perspective on the challenges faced by Nigerians and the broader implications of Trump’s immigration crackdown.
In an exclusive interview, Bello, a seasoned financial manager and developmental economist, emphasized that while immigration enforcement is not new, the current administration’s approach has sparked global attention due to its aggressive tactics. “President Trump is executing his campaign promises, but the manner in which these deportations are being carried out often skips due process, leading to widespread concern,” Bello explained.
He noted that while the exact number of undocumented Nigerians in the US remains unknown, many have been advised to avoid public spaces such as airports, bus stations, and workplaces to evade arrest. “The current wave of deportations is indiscriminate, affecting immigrants from various countries, including Nigeria,” Bello stated.
Bello also highlighted that former President Barack Obama deported more undocumented immigrants than any other US president, but Trump’s methods have drawn criticism for their lack of procedural fairness. “The difference lies in the due process—or lack thereof—under the current administration,” he said.
Despite the challenges, Bello pointed out that the Nigerian community in the US is rallying to support affected individuals. “Nigerians are leveraging community networks, legal aid, and NGOs to ensure that those arrested have access to legal representation and understand their rights,” he added.
When asked about the perception of immigrants as criminals, Bello clarified that undocumented status does not equate to criminality. “Crimes are committed by individuals, not by virtue of their immigration status. Nigerians, like other immigrants, contribute significantly to the US economy and society,” he asserted.
As the debate over immigration policies continues, Bello urged a balanced approach that respects the rule of law while addressing the complexities of undocumented immigration. “The US is a nation built by immigrants, and it is crucial to uphold the values of fairness and due process in addressing these issues,” he concluded.
