A Nigerian family residing in Windsor, Ontario, is appealing to the Canadian government to allow them to remain in the country, citing concerns for their safety and the need for their daughter, a 16-year-old cancer survivor, to continue her medical treatment.
Amirat Fayemi, the teenage cancer survivor, expressed her plea for safety and ongoing medical care, emphasizing the risks they face if forced to return to Nigeria. Her father, an opposition member in the Nigerian government, is reportedly in danger, having faced kidnapping and threats due to exposing corruption within the government.
Amirat, who was diagnosed with leukemia in 2022 and is currently in remission, is undergoing treatment for a new blood-related issue, raising fears of a cancer relapse. Despite her doctor advising against air travel due to her medical condition, immigration authorities have contested this recommendation.
The family’s journey to Canada began after Amirat’s leukemia diagnosis during a trip to the U.S., where she received life-saving treatment. Following their asylum application’s rejection and subsequent appeals, the family is now seeking permanent residency on humanitarian and compassionate grounds.
Despite facing imminent deportation orders, the family is advocating for their right to remain in Canada, with support from Nigerian community groups in Windsor. Their case has garnered attention for the urgent medical needs of Amirat and the family’s safety concerns if forced to return to Nigeria.
While the Canadian government emphasizes due process in immigration matters, the family continues to hope for a resolution that would allow them to stay in Canada and ensure Amirat’s access to essential medical care. The uncertainty of their future remains as they await a final decision on their plea to remain in the country.