Anthony Olubunmi George, a 63-year-old disabled Nigerian man, has won his appeal to stay in the UK after living there for almost 40 years. Despite the Home Office’s efforts to deport him, George was granted the right to remain in the country by an immigration tribunal judge.
Key Facts About George’s Case:
– Long-term Residence: George arrived in the UK in 1986 at the age of 24 and has been living there ever since, with no criminal convictions.
– Health Issues: He suffered two strokes in 2019, resulting in speech and mobility issues.
– Poor Legal Representation: George’s current lawyer attributes his immigration issues to poor representation by previous solicitors, who submitted a forged entry stamp in his passport.
– Homelessness: George has experienced periods of homelessness, relying on friends for shelter, and has no close family left in Nigeria.
The Court’s Decision:
The immigration tribunal judge granted George the right to remain in the UK, citing the unfortunate consequences of his previous solicitors’ actions. The judge noted that George had stopped seeking medical care due to fears about his immigration status, which led to two cardiovascular attacks.
George’s Reaction:
George expressed immense joy and relief, stating, “My life has just begun again. Before I didn’t have hope, but now by God’s grace I can move forward with my life”.
