More News
Retired Nigerian Police Officer, Wife Denied Canadian Asylum
By Gideon Ayeni
Canadian immigration authorities have rejected the asylum applications of retired Nigerian police officer Wale Francis Akinpelu and his wife, Ajarat Mojirola, citing concerns over his past service in the Nigerian police force.
The couple, who left Nigeria in 2017, claimed they were fleeing threats from a criminal gang. Mrs. Akinpelu first traveled to the United States in May 2017, and her husband joined her in October after resigning from the police. In 2018, they moved to Canada, where they sought refugee protection, arguing that returning to Nigeria would put them at risk.
However, Canadian authorities raised concerns over Mr. Akinpelu’s police background, linking it to human rights violations attributed to the Nigerian police. His asylum application was suspended, and a federal court later upheld its rejection, ruling that his past employment disqualified him under Canada’s human rights laws.
Mrs. Akinpelu’s application was also processed separately but met a similar fate. Her initial request was denied in 2019 after authorities identified inconsistencies in her claims. She appealed, leading to a fresh hearing, but her asylum bid was ultimately rejected again in February 2023.
Justice Norris, who presided over her legal challenge, ruled that her evidence contained contradictions, with some documents appearing fraudulent. The judge also noted that her claims were largely based on her husband’s statements, which lacked credibility.
With both applications denied, Canadian authorities are expected to proceed with the couple’s deportation following the asylum denial.
Send Us A Press Statement Advertise With Us Contact Us
And For More Nigerian News Visit GWG.NG
