Mid-February 2026 — The planned deportation of Titilayo Oluwakemi Oyekanmi and her three sons from Ireland to South Africa has been formally delayed by four weeks, following mounting public pressure and political engagement. The family had been due for removal on February 12, 2026. However, after presenting at the Garda National Immigration Bureau (GNIB) on the scheduled date, they were reportedly instructed to return in one month, effectively postponing the enforcement of the deportation order until mid-March.
The delay comes after widespread demonstrations and appeals for ministerial intervention. More than 300 supporters gathered outside the Department of Justice in Dublin, urging Minister for Justice Jim O’Callaghan to revoke the deportation order on humanitarian grounds.
Among those present were students from Gonzaga College, members of the Dundrum South Dublin Athletic Club, and Labour Party Leader Ivana Bacik. Speakers at the protest emphasised the family’s integration into the local school and sports community, calling for a compassionate reassessment of the case. Advocates described the postponement as a temporary but meaningful development, while stressing that the family’s immigration status remains unresolved.
Ms. Oyekanmi and her children arrived in Ireland from South Africa in 2023. Although she is originally from Nigeria, her asylum claim was based on fears of xenophobic violence and past trauma experienced in South Africa. Her application was rejected after South Africa was deemed a “safe country of origin” under Irish asylum procedures — a designation that can make it more difficult for claims from that country to succeed. Supporters argue that the classification does not sufficiently account for individual circumstances and vulnerabilities.
A GoFundMe campaign organised by community members confirmed the four-week delay and continues to raise funds to support the family’s legal representation and immediate living expenses. Campaign organisers say the additional time will allow legal avenues to be explored and further appeals to be made to the Minister for Justice.
Immigration authorities have not announced any permanent change to the deportation order. The family is expected to report again next month, at which time a decision on enforcement or further delay may be made. For now, supporters say they will continue advocacy efforts, describing the delay as “a pause in proceedings rather than a final resolution.”
