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The concept of asylum is deeply ingrained in Nigerian law, based on international rights treaties and Nigerian legislations. Notably, the 1951 United Nations Refugee Convention, ratified by Nigeria, outlines the legal status and rights of such individuals, including refugees and asylees. The Nigerian Immigration Act and the National Commission for Refugees Act provide domestic legal bases for asylum seekers, protecting their fundamental human rights and regulating their stay in Nigeria.
Attempt to seek asylum may be a complex process, involving a sequence of procedural, legal, and administrative tasks. This complexity coupled with the emotional toll and language barriers, may necessitate the need for a proficient lawyer. A lawyer can not only help interpret the local laws but also guide an asylum seeker through the required documentation, representation, and engaging with immigration officials. Legal counsel can also be indispensable when challenging a denied asylum application, compiling proof of persecution, and understanding the ramifications of local laws.
Nigerian law does contribute to a door of hope for those seeking asylum based on reasons of persecution or fear thereof. However, you must apply within reasonable time or show that there are exceptional circumstances. Applicants are entitled to be treated with respect and dignity, and the law prohibits any form of discrimination against them. Your application will be reviewed by the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants and Internally Displaced Persons, which is legally empowered to grant asylum in Nigeria.
First and foremost, an individual must be physically present in Nigeria. The person should then submit an application for asylum to the local immigration office, which is then passed on to the National Commission for Refugees. Beware, applications must be made as soon as possible after arriving in Nigeria.
Yes, an application for asylum may be refused if the applicant is deemed to be not genuine, has a criminal background, or has safe alternative options. However, there is the provision for appeal.
Detaining asylum seekers can only occur under specific circumstances. These include cases where identity cannot be ascertained, risk of absconding, or protection of national security. Throughout the detention, the asylum seekers must be treated with dignity and respect and have access to legal assistance.
Under Nigerian law, asylum seekers are granted the right to work six months after presenting their application, if a decision has not been made yet.
Refugees and asylum seekers are entitled to several rights including access to work, medical services, and education, furthermore, they cannot be expelled except under strict conditions.
You may find the following resources helpful:
- United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) Nigeria provides a wealth of information, resources, and contacts that can be of help.
- The National Commission for Refugees, Migrants and Internally Displaced Persons is the official body handling asylum cases in Nigeria.
If you are in need of legal assistance for Asylum in Owerri, Nigeria, it is recommended that you seek out a reputable and experienced asylum lawyer or contact a recognized legal aid organization. They will be able to walk you through the asylum-seeking process, help document your case, and prepare for any potential legal hurdles.
