Mother and three sons removed to South Africa despite community outcry and failed asylum appeal

A Nigerian family who became the focus of a major protest outside Ireland’s Department of Justice last month has been deported to South Africa.

Titilayo Oluwakemi Oyekanmi and her three sons — Samuel, Joseph and Genesis, aged between five and 18 — were removed from the country on Saturday, bringing an abrupt end to a campaign by neighbours and friends who had pleaded with authorities to halt the deportation.

The boys, who had settled into life in south Dublin, attended local schools and were active in community sports clubs. Their supporters described the family’s removal as a devastating blow to the neighbourhood.

Community members expressed shock at the speed of the deportation, saying there was no opportunity for proper farewells.

“For the friends who gathered in support, there was no chance to say goodbye,” a statement from supporters read.

According to the group, the family had believed they would be granted more time to prepare for their departure. “This glimmer of hope was taken away from Titi and her three children this morning, as an uncertain future now awaits,” the statement added.

The Oyekanmi family arrived in Ireland in late 2023. Titilayo, originally from Nigeria, had applied for international protection, claiming she was assaulted by a gang and threatened at gunpoint in South Africa. She said she feared for her family’s safety if returned.

However, her application for asylum was rejected, and a subsequent appeal was unsuccessful. A deportation order was issued last April.

Stephen Kirwan of KOD Lyons, the family’s solicitor, described the deportation as “absolutely appalling” on Saturday.

The case had drawn national attention following the public demonstration outside the Department of Justice, with supporters urging authorities to reconsider the decision. Despite the appeals, the deportation proceeded as scheduled.