Renowned human rights lawyer Femi Falana (SAN) has strongly condemned the recently announced UK-Nigeria migration agreement, warning that it violates the Nigerian Constitution and international human rights standards.
Signed during President Bola Tinubu’s state visit to the United Kingdom, the deal aims to fast-track the deportation of Nigerians without legal status, including failed asylum seekers and convicted individuals.
Falana described the agreement as dangerous and legally flawed, cautioning that it prioritizes administrative convenience over due process.
A particularly controversial element is the use of “UK letters” in place of proper travel documents—a move he says could lead to wrongful or arbitrary deportations.
The senior advocate also criticized the lack of fair hearing guarantees, noting that the arrangement could deprive affected Nigerians of the right to challenge their deportation.
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He stressed that the agreement is inconsistent with Nigeria’s obligations under the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, which the country has ratified.
Falana further highlighted the potential impact on families, pointing out that many Nigerians targeted by the agreement have established lives abroad, including children and spouses.
Deportations carried out without careful consideration, he warned, could breach the right to family life.
Citing judicial precedents, he noted that UK courts have consistently emphasized that deportation decisions must be proportionate and prioritize the best interests of children.
He also criticized the lack of legislative scrutiny and public debate in Nigeria, arguing that treaties affecting fundamental rights cannot be implemented solely at the discretion of the executive.
Falana warned that provisions suggesting Nigerians convicted in the UK could serve prison terms in Nigeria are illegal, as Nigerian law requires a court order for detention.
He concluded that until the agreement is reviewed, properly domesticated, and aligned with constitutional and international obligations, no Nigerian citizen should face arbitrary deportation under its terms.
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