A United States citizen, who entered Britain claiming asylum, has been receiving thousands of pounds in state support despite the Home Office rejecting his application for protection.
From Las Vegas to London: A Rejected Asylum Claim
Olabode Shoniregun, 27, arrived in the UK from Las Vegas in October 2024, travelling on a US passport. He told authorities he was fleeing persecution in America, citing discrimination based on his race, religion, and faith as a black, Jewish Mormon. Following his arrival, he was initially housed in migrant accommodation while his claim was processed.
In an interview, Shoniregun stated he applied for asylum in the UK because he was born at Whittington Hospital in Islington, north London. He expressed a hope to "start life, get some housing, get a job that pays me cash." His asylum claim was formally refused in June of the following year. A Home Office letter informed him he "must now leave the United Kingdom" and that he did "not have a right to appeal against this decision."
Continued Support After Refusal
Despite the refusal and the order to leave, Shoniregun was not removed from the country. Subsequently, he was offered support by Islington Council. He reported receiving £400.19 per month in financial assistance to help cover living expenses, including accommodation and food, which he also used to pay for his mobile phone service.
Shoniregun defended receiving the benefits, stating, "I've been born in the United Kingdom, so I think that it's crazy for me not to receive some kind of benefit. So I'm not too surprised. And I don't think that £400 is a lot of cash. I deserve that and more, in my opinion." He further elaborated on his asylum claim, telling reporters he sought "humanitarian protection from violent homosexuality" and felt endangered if he returned to the US, where he alleged he was sexually assaulted by law enforcement.
Official Responses and Removal Efforts
When questioned, a spokesman for Islington Council asserted its compliance with national regulations, stating: "Islington council does not offer financial support or social housing to anyone without an eligible immigration status within government rules and regulations." The council added it focuses on providing advice and working with partners to support those experiencing homelessness.
The Home Office confirmed it is actively working to remove Shoniregun. A spokesman explained, "The airline deemed Mr Shoniregun unfit to fly. We are working to remove him as soon as possible." The department highlighted its broader record on removals, noting that under the current government, "returns of people with no right to remain in the UK have surged, with almost 50,000 people removed – a 23 per cent increase on the previous period."
This case underscores ongoing debates about the UK's asylum process, the provision of benefits, and the practical challenges of removing individuals after their claims have been denied.
