A physically challenged Nigerian man identified as Anthony Olubunmi George, may face deportation from the United Kingdom where he’s lived for the past 38 years, over alleged falsification.
George, 61, arrived in the United Kingdom from Nigeria in 1986 when he was 24 years old and has since remained there with no criminal convictions.
In 2005, his previous solicitors submitted a falsified entry stamp in his passport, which has since been reported to the police and the legal regulatory bodies.
However, George, in an interview with the Guardian, revealed that he was completely unaware of the passport stamp until several years later.
According to reports, the man submitted multiple applications for leave to remain in the UK, all of which have been denied by the Home Office, with the most recent rejection occurring on May 7, 2024.
George reportedly said he no longer has any immediate relatives residing in Nigeria and has faced numerous episodes of homelessness.
In 2019, the sexagenarian was said to have experienced two strokes that had a significant impact on his ability to speak and move.
He said; “I don’t know how many different sofas I’ve slept on – too many to count. I don’t have my life, living the way I’m living now. My health problems since I had my stroke are my biggest worry. All I’m asking for is some kindness from the Home Office.”
His current lawyer, Naga Kandiah of MTC Solicitors said George’s difficulties can be attributed to his poor past legal representation.
In their latest rejection, the Home Office stated that the situation was not deemed exceptional. But Kandiah challenged the Home Office’s decision in an appeal.
He said; “My client has been living in limbo for 38 years, with no family, has suffered two strokes and has no family left in Nigeria.
“His situation is not just because of Home Office policies but also because of poor representation by previous solicitors who failed to uphold professional integrity and ethical standards.”
A spokesperson for the Home Office, said; “Applications have to be considered on their merits in accordance with the immigration rules, and applicants are responsible for demonstrating that they meet these rules.”
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