In a harrowing example of the challenges faced by immigrants without clear residency plans, a 61-year-old Nigerian man is facing deportation after living in the UK for 38 years.
This distressing situation underscores the critical importance of securing a clear path to residency and understanding the requirements for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) in the UK.
For nearly four decades, the man, who arrived in the UK in his mid-twenties, has built a life in a country he now calls home, The Guardian reports.
Despite his long-term residence, his lack of formal residency status has left him vulnerable to deportation. His case is similar to another immigrant from Ghana who is now also faced with a harrowing and long wait for residency, after 50 years in the UK
The case highlights the precariousness of living without a proper immigration plan, particularly for those without close family support back home.
The man’s plight serves as a stark warning to anyone considering relocating to the UK without a clear plan on how to become a permanent resident.
Without securing ILR or citizenship, even decades of residence cannot protect against the threat of deportation. This case illustrates the necessity of understanding and navigating the UK’s complex immigration system to avoid such dire consequences.
Anthony Olubunmi George is reported not to have had any criminal convictions since he has lived in the UK, yet this has not moved the Home Office in any way. His most recent application to the Home Office for leave to remain in the UK was refused as recently as May 7th.
Compounding his woes is the fact that he had bad legal representation in the past. His lawyers were alleged to have submitted forged documents to the Home Office on his behalf, which he now denies knowledge of.
For any enquiries please, email our editorial team at [email protected]. If you liked this story, kindly sign up for Clariform Newsletter, a handpicked selection of stories that helps you clarify things that matter and gives you clear signals about your world, delivered directly to your inbox.
Please subscribe to our YouTube channel, and join thousands of Clariform on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
