Columbia, SC – A federal court has granted a vital temporary halt to the deportation of Matthew Ariwoola, a Nigerian PhD student pursuing advanced chemistry studies at the University of South Carolina. This ruling provides a much-needed reprieve for Ariwoola, who faced removal due to a case of mistaken identity.
Legal Battle Highlights Trump’s Immigration Crackdown Impact
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) had revoked Ariwoola’s student visa. This action stemmed from a mistaken identity connected to a 2023 criminal warrant issued in Georgia. Ariwoola states he has never visited Georgia. The DHS decision, made on April 8, 2025, abruptly halted his academic progress. He was banned from attending classes and suspended from his research. This action impacted thousands of international students nationwide, who faced similar unexplained immigration actions. The disruption jeopardised Ariwoola’s ability to teach, conduct research, and support his family.
ACLU Secures Relief Amid Trump’s Immigration Crackdown
The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) of South Carolina filed a lawsuit challenging the DHS decision. On April 18, District Judge Jacquelyn Austin issued a 14-day temporary restraining order. This order blocked deportation proceedings and restored Ariwoola’s student privileges. The court later issued a preliminary injunction on June 13, preventing federal action against Ariwoola until the case is resolved. This legal intervention offers a crucial pause for the Nigerian PhD student as he continues his critical research. Ariwoola expressed his gratitude: “This victory, though temporary, is a huge source of hope for international students who are unfairly targeted,” he said. “I’m especially thankful to the ACLU-SC and the court for ensuring that justice prevails.”.
Ariwoola’s situation is part of a broader trend. The Trump administration has increased efforts to deport undocumented immigrants, and foreign students are increasingly caught in these enforcement actions. His case underscores concerns over aggressive immigration policies that can affect students’ academic futures. The future for this Nigerian PhD student hinges on the resolution of this legal challenge, offering hope to others facing similar difficulties.
By Abiodun Labi,Senior Correspondent
