U.S. Court Blocks Deportation of Nigerian PhD Student in Trump-Era Immigration Crackdown

A federal court in the United States has halted the deportation of Matthew Ariwoola, a Nigerian PhD student in chemistry at the University of South Carolina, amid an aggressive immigration crackdown under President Donald Trump’s administration.

Ariwoola’s ordeal began on April 8, 2025, when the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) revoked his student visa, citing a 2023 criminal warrant from the state of Georgia. Ariwoola, however, maintains he has never visited Georgia, calling it a case of mistaken identity.

The visa revocation forced him out of his academic program and left him at risk of immediate deportation. The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) of South Carolina filed a legal challenge on his behalf, resulting in a temporary restraining order issued by U.S. District Judge Jacquelyn Austin on April 18. The order blocked Ariwoola’s removal and reinstated his access to student privileges.

Following multiple extensions, Judge Austin issued a preliminary injunction on June 13, barring further government action against Ariwoola while the case proceeds. In her ruling, she affirmed the court’s jurisdiction and highlighted the constitutional concerns raised by the case.

Homeland Security has since restored Ariwoola’s status in the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS), allowing him to continue his research and doctoral studies.

Reacting to the court’s decision, Ariwoola said:
“This victory, though temporary, is a huge source of hope for international students who are unfairly targeted. I’m especially thankful to the ACLU-SC and the court for ensuring that justice prevails.”

The case comes amid heightened scrutiny of President Trump’s renewed immigration policies, which have led to a surge in enforcement actions, including against international students.

For now, Ariwoola remains in the U.S., continuing both his academic pursuits and legal battle.