US Immigration Authorities Free Nigerian Nun Detained En Route to Sunday Service

Sister Leticia Ugboaja, a Roman Catholic nun, has been freed from United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement custody after her arrest while walking to church in McAllen, Texas.

n

Ugboaja, a member of the Daughters of Mary Mother of Mercy, was detained by ICE officers as she made her way to Our Lady of Sorrows Catholic Church, which is situated near the US-Mexico border, to attend Mass.

n

The church reported the incident, which was later picked up by The Guardian on Tuesday, and it garnered significant attention after the church posted about the arrest on social media.

n

This led to intervention from several US Congress members, including Representative Monica De La Cruz, a Republican from south Texas, prompting a swift response to secure Ugboaja's release.

n

Church officials noted that Ugboaja serves as an extraordinary minister of Holy Communion at Our Lady of Sorrows Church, and she is also a dedicated member of the community.

n

Brenda Riojas, spokesperson for the Catholic Diocese of Brownsville, confirmed that Ugboaja works as a registered nurse at South Texas Health System.

n

Prior to her current role, Ugboaja spent 10 years working as a certified nursing assistant at DHR Health in Edinburg, Texas, accumulating valuable experience in the field.

n

Following the intervention by De La Cruz and other south Texas lawmakers, Ugboaja was released from custody and returned home, bringing an end to her ordeal.

n

Brenda Riojas expressed gratitude, stating, “We are grateful for the quick response of local representatives who reached out to the Department of Homeland Security to get her released from custody.”

n

As of Sunday, the US Department of Homeland Security and ICE had not publicly commented on the circumstances surrounding Ugboaja's arrest.

n

The incident occurred amid an intensified immigration enforcement campaign under President Donald Trump’s administration, which has included operations at traditionally sensitive locations, such as places of worship.

n

The crackdown has led some faith leaders to adjust their support for immigrant congregants, encouraging online worship and offering assistance with errands for those who fear leaving their homes.