The United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has added the names and photographs of 10 more Nigerians to its “worst of the worst” list of foreign nationals accused of criminal offences.
The names and images were published on the website of the US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) as the Trump administration continues its intensified immigration enforcement and deportation campaign.
DHS said the initiative was part of efforts to fulfil President Donald Trump’s pledge to carry out mass deportations, beginning with individuals considered serious criminal offenders.
The department said it was highlighting foreign nationals arrested by ICE over alleged criminal offences, describing them as among the “worst of the worst.”
The register is periodically updated and features foreign nationals from different countries facing various criminal allegations.
The 10 Nigerians recently added to the list include Temitope Bashiru, who is accused of wire fraud, identity theft and fraud; Ojehoro Lewis, who faces an allegation of child cruelty; and Osemudiamen Kingsley Oziegbe, who is listed over alleged wire fraud.
Daniel Oworen was listed over an alleged dangerous drugs offence, while Raymond H. Ekevwo is accused of wire fraud.
Franklin Dikeocha is listed over an alleged sexual offence involving the fondling of a child, while Johnson Ogunlana faces allegations of fraud and identity theft.
Chukwuemeka Okorocha is accused of multiple offences, including wire fraud, dangerous drugs, unlawful possession of a weapon and aggravated assault.
Tunde Korede is listed over an alleged conspiracy offence, while Chukwuemeka Chineye faces allegations involving fraud against a banking-type institution, larceny, identity theft and conspiracy.
DHS did not provide specific dates for when the individuals listed would be deported to Nigeria or their respective countries of origin.
The latest additions come after previous updates to the ICE register involving Nigerian nationals. In February, ICE published the names and photographs of 79 Nigerians on the list, while the number reportedly increased to 124 by July.
The US government also announced in August that it had revoked more than 175,000 visas issued to foreign nationals under the Trump administration over alleged visa violations, criminal conduct or security concerns.
However, being featured on the ICE register does not, by itself, establish that an individual is guilty of the allegations against them. Those listed remain subject to applicable legal and immigration proceedings.
