Outrage as ICE detains Nigerian-born US professor, demands for release grow

A Nigerian-born US professor, Dr. Ann Lawani, has been detained by immigration authorities despite holding a valid work permit, prompting lawmakers, colleagues and family members to demand her immediate release.

A Nigerian-born professor, Dr. Ann Lawani, has been detained by United States immigration authorities, sparking outrage among lawmakers, colleagues and family members demanding her immediate release.

According to NBC Bay Area, Lawani, 39, has lived and worked in the United States for 21 years with a valid work permit.

She was reportedly arrested eight weeks ago at her home in Lodi, California, before being transferred through detention facilities in Stockton and El Paso, Texas, to the South Louisiana ICE Processing Center.

US Congressman Josh Harder condemned her detention, explaining that Lawani had been granted withholding of removal because of threats of persecution in Nigeria.

Harder has written to Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin, demanding her return to California.

“This goes against everything ICE has publicly said,” Harder said. “They’re saying they are keeping our community safe and prioritizing folks who are threatening public safety. This is exactly the opposite.”

Lawani oversees the master’s nursing programme at the University of San Francisco and works weekends at John Muir Health’s cardiovascular stroke unit.

Her colleagues described her as a dedicated healthcare professional who served vulnerable patients throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.

“I’m appalled that an individual like Dr. Lawani is in this circumstance. She’s one of the finest nurses that I know,” said Eileen Fry-Bowers, dean of the university’s School of Nursing.

Supporters have continued pressing federal authorities for her release, citing her longstanding contributions to healthcare and education.

The Department of Homeland Security had not responded to requests for comment.