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ABUJA, Nigeria - The Human Rights Monitors, a group of Civil Society Organisations (CSOs), is urging the United Nations to intervene regarding the mass deportations of migrants by the United States.
The coalition's Convener, Armsfree Ajanaku, made this request during a news conference held on Thursday in Abuja.
The event, titled “Violation of Immigrants’ Rights and the Quest for Justice Through African Reparations,” highlighted the coalition's monitoring of various human rights abuses related to the arbitrary deportations of immigrants from the U.S. since January 20, primarily affecting Africans and people of African descent.
Ajanaku emphasized that while nations have the right to manage their affairs, it is concerning when actions infringe upon rights, dignity, and civilized norms.
He described distressing scenarios of migrant homes being raided, mass arrests taking place, and families being separated, with parents detained and children suffering trauma.
“Such actions from a country that champions democracy and human rights blatantly violate the rights of asylum seekers and migrants,” Ajanaku stated.
He accused the United States of denying asylum to individuals escaping war and political strife, violating several international human rights treaties.
The coalition presented these issues during the 58th session of the UN Human Rights Council in Switzerland in April. Ajanaku pointed out violations of international law, including Article 9 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which safeguards against arbitrary arrest and exile; Article 14, which grants the right to seek asylum; and Article 7 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, which offers protection from inhumane treatment.
He also noted breaches of the Convention on the Rights of the Child, the Convention on the Protection of the Rights of All Migrant Workers and Their Families, and the 1951 Refugee Convention.
“Refugees and immigrants seeking asylum are legally protected under both U.S. and international law. They should never be treated as criminals for entering without visas,” he stated.
Ajanaku called upon the UN to implement legal measures to address the challenges faced by migrants undergoing forced and arbitrary deportation and to collaborate with affected individuals through CSOs and organizations focused on refugees.
Additionally, he urged African leaders to enhance institutions and infrastructures to improve the wellbeing and security of their citizens, both domestically and internationally.
He asserted that with effective systems established, individuals would be more inclined to stay in their respective countries, overcome obstacles to advancement, and reap the benefits of good governance.
