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Community Rallies Against Deportation of Nigerian Family in South Dublin
Over 300 individuals gathered outside Ireland’s Department of Justice to voice their opposition to the imminent deportation of the Oyekanmi family, a Nigerian household residing in south Dublin. The family, consisting of mother Titilayo Oluwakemi Oyekanmi and her three sons—Samuel, Joseph, and Genesis—faced a deportation order after their asylum claim was denied.
Background: Arrival and Deportation Order
The Oyekanmi family relocated to Ireland from South Africa in 2023. Despite their efforts to seek asylum, their application was rejected last year, leading to a deportation directive scheduled for February 12, 2026. However, following the public outcry and protest, the deportation has been postponed by four weeks.
Concerns Over Safety and Xenophobia
Ms. Oyekanmi has expressed grave concerns about the safety of her children if forced to return to South Africa, citing ongoing xenophobic violence and threats. She recounted narrowly escaping a kidnapping attempt and fears that the hostile environment in South Africa, particularly towards Nigerians, remains perilous.
Community Integration and Support
The family has become an active part of their local community, with the children enrolled in schools and participating in sports clubs. Supporters emphasize the positive contributions the family has made over their three years in Ireland. Letters appealing for the family’s right to remain were submitted to the Department of Justice on February 10, 2026, reflecting widespread community backing.
Voices from the Community and Schools
Cara McGuinness, mother of Joseph’s school friend Charlie, highlighted Joseph’s remarkable character and achievements, describing him as a talented athlete and a compassionate student at Gonzaga College. Joseph’s classmates, including Charlie Donovan and Luca Conan, echoed these sentiments, praising his kindness, academic excellence, and sportsmanship.
Sam Kennedy, a fellow athlete and schoolmate, shared how Joseph’s welcoming nature positively impacted his experience at Gonzaga. Jasper Gilmartin also expressed shock at the deportation news, noting Joseph’s constant positivity and athletic prowess.
Legal Representation and Appeal
Stephen Kirwan, Partner and Head of Immigration Law at KOD Lions solicitors, who has represented the family for nearly a year, argues that the deportation decision overlooked critical factors such as the family’s integration and community ties. He urges the Minister for Justice to reconsider, emphasizing the exceptional circumstances surrounding the case.
Official Position of the Department of Justice
The Department of Justice maintains that individuals whose international protection applications are denied must comply with deportation orders. It clarified that the International Protection Office (IPO) and the International Protection Appeals Tribunal (IPAT) operate independently, assessing each case based on national and international asylum laws.
The department also highlighted its voluntary return program, which encourages and assists individuals to return to their home countries before deportation orders are enforced.
Personal Aspirations and Community Contributions
Ms. Oyekanmi, who has completed a QQI Level 5 qualification in healthcare, intended to pursue a career as a care assistant in Ireland. She emphasized her commitment to working hard and providing a safe, stable future for her children, who have thrived academically and athletically in their new environment.
Julie Clements, owner of the Gathering Grounds Café in Kiltiernan where Ms. Oyekanmi volunteers, recounted the family’s harrowing experiences in South Africa, including threats from armed assailants targeting Nigerian residents.
Community Solidarity and Ongoing Advocacy
The protest and subsequent delay in deportation underscore the community’s dedication to supporting the Oyekanmi family. Advocates continue to appeal to Justice Minister Jim O’Callaghan to allow the family to remain in Ireland, highlighting their positive impact and the risks they face if returned to South Africa.
