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US Asylum Seeker Remains in UK After 'Clearly Unfounded' Certification as Airline Deems Him Unfit to Fly

Islington disputes reports that it financed his living costs, leaving the source of his support unclear.

Overview

  • The Home Office rejected Olabode Shoniregun’s claim on 5 June 2025 and certified it as “clearly unfounded” under section 94, removing any right of appeal.
  • Coverage reports he received social housing, a bank account and about £400.19 a month from Islington Council and Saint Stephen’s Church, though the council denies providing financial support to rejected asylum seekers.
  • He was removed from the social housing in November after alleged aggressive conduct toward staff that prompted police involvement.
  • Officials offered a voluntary return on 10 December with £1,500 and a flight to Las Vegas, but a week later an airline at Heathrow deemed him unfit to fly; the Home Office says it is working to remove him.
  • He previously stayed in taxpayer-funded hotels and says he fled the US after alleged sexual assaults by police, while also saying he would return to visit but does not want to be deported.