Government Acts to Prevent Student Deportation
The Federal Government has taken action to address the recent deportation orders issued against Nigerian students at Teesside University in the United Kingdom. A high-level delegation, led by Ambassador Christian Okeke from the Nigerian Embassy in the UK, will meet with the university’s management. This meeting aims to find a solution to the students’ predicament.
Virtual Meeting Precedes Direct Talks
This initiative follows a virtual meeting chaired by Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chairman/CEO of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM). The meeting included Ambassador Okeke, Yemi Soile, President of the Nigerian Students Union in the UK, and several affected students. During the session, students outlined their difficulties, expressing hope for a positive resolution.
Students Urged to Stay Calm
In a statement on Wednesday, NiDCOM spokesperson Abdur-Rahman Balogun highlighted the government’s commitment to resolving the issue. Dabiri-Erewa urged the students to remain calm and refrain from taking drastic actions. She appealed to Teesside University to treat the students with fairness and justice.
Financial Struggles Behind the Crisis
The deportation orders stem from the students’ inability to pay their tuition fees, largely due to the naira’s devaluation. As a result, some students were locked out of their university accounts and reported to the Home Office. The university insists that external regulations require these measures, despite offering customised payment plans to assist students.
Individual Stories Highlight Impact
Among the affected students, Adenike Ibrahim, who had paid 90% of her fees, faced visa revocation just before graduation. Similarly, Esther Obigwe, who sought help repeatedly, experienced depression after her studies were blocked. Jude Salubi, a social work student, also found himself in limbo despite paying half his tuition fees.
University and Home Office Stand Firm
Teesside University has reiterated its commitment to a diverse student body but emphasised the need to adhere to visa regulations. The Home Office clarified that visa sponsorship decisions rest with the sponsoring institution, urging affected individuals to regularise their stay or leave the UK. The situation remains tense as the government and university work towards a resolution.
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