Overview

• Paul Dama, 46, left ICE’s Burlington processing center late Thursday after nearly 100 days in detention.
• Immigration Judge Yul-Mi Cho granted asylum based on Dama’s credible fear of persecution in Nigeria, including a 2018 kidnapping by Boko Haram tied to his journalism.
• ICE arrested Dama on June 15, citing an expired 2019 visitor visa and two 2024 OUI convictions, and DHS later labeled him a public safety threat.
• The government can appeal the asylum ruling until Oct. 23, and there is lingering uncertainty about the status of any related removal proceedings.
• Supporters raised roughly $50,000 for legal costs as Suya Joint coped with his absence, and Dama says he will recuperate, resume therapy, and return to work.