Sister Leticia Ugboaja’s Detainment Unfolds in Texas

In McAllen, Texas, Sister Leticia Ugboaja shared her unsettling experience of being detained by immigration officers while walking to Sunday Mass. Clad in her habit and lost in thought over Bible readings, she was approached by armed men. Ugboaja said, “Honestly, in that moment, I did not understand what was going on, what was happening to me.” She addressed these concerns during a news conference at Our Lady of Sorrows Church, explaining her arrest on June 28 by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement.

For years, Ugboaja has been safeguarded from return to Nigeria under claims of potential torture. Despite her status, she was detained close to the U.S.-Mexico border, highlighting the urgency of her situation online, which led to intervention from Congress members.

President Donald Trump’s immigration policies have sparked controversy, marked by vigorous deportation measures under his administration. Although Ugboaja is free now, she faces uncertainty with an impending ICE check-in.

Expressing a desire to aid others facing similar threats, Sister Leticia urged for attention to those given protection who abide by the rules yet remain fearful, stating, “There are many others in this same situation, people who have been given some form of protection under our laws, who have followed every rule asked of them, and who still live with uncertainty.” While thankful for the support she received, Ugboaja insists on speaking up about her experience and the broader issues affecting others.

“Her attorney, Carlos M. Garcia, provided insights into Ugboaja’s immigration story. Although her asylum bid was denied, protection from Nigerian deportation was secured on grounds of possible torture. Ugboaja complies with work permission requirements in the U.S., yet faced unclear justification during her detention.”

According to Garcia, Ugboaja was under consideration for removal to a third country based on controversial policies contested by advocates. The Department of Homeland Security views these agreements as facilitating alternative asylum solutions amid court congestion.

Sister Ugboaja is a member of the Daughters of Mary Mother of Mercy order and volunteers at Our Lady of Sorrows Church, contributing to the community as a minister and healthcare professional. Her nursing career spans contributions to South Texas Health System and earlier roles at Edinburg.

On the day of her arrest, Ugboaja pleaded to attend Mass and receive Holy Communion, which was denied. “For me, a nun, not to go to Mass on Sunday, not to receive Communion, it was very, very heartbreaking for me,” she shared.

The Department of Homeland Security and ICE have not responded to inquiries concerning Ugboaja’s circumstances, maintaining silence on the events surrounding her case since June.