A Nigerian man convicted of armed robbery and drug dealing has been granted the right to remain in the UK after arguing that his belief in demonic possession puts him at risk if deported, The Telegraph reported on Sunday.
The individual, whose identity remains undisclosed for legal reasons, was sentenced to seven years in prison in 2011 for an armed robbery at a brothel.
He was later jailed again in 2018 for supplying crack cocaine.
Despite a deportation order issued against him in April 2014, he challenged the decision on human rights grounds.
Reports indicate that he has spent much of his time in a secure mental health facility in the UK, receiving treatment for severe psychiatric conditions.
A medical evaluation revealed that he suffers from a trauma-related disorder with psychotic symptoms, experiencing intrusive thoughts, nightmares, and a persistent belief that demonic forces are manipulating his mind.
During a legal review, Upper Tribunal Judge Stephen Smith ruled that an earlier court decision contained legal errors.
He acknowledged that the man’s conviction that his condition stems from demonic possession could lead to others perceiving him as being under supernatural influence.
A report from Amnesty International, cited in the case, highlighted the risks he could face if sent back to Nigeria, where societal beliefs in witchcraft and demonic possession are widespread.
The report suggested that returning him could worsen his condition and expose him to harm.
The tribunal determined that deporting him would remove him from the structured mental health care system in the UK, which would not be readily available in Nigeria.
The man, who has expressed a commitment to turning his life around, has been participating in rehabilitation activities such as volunteering and regular exercise.
For now, he remains in the UK, with a fresh hearing expected to determine his long-term status.
