Nigerian nun detained by ICE speaks Out, seeks fair hearing ahead of fresh immigration appointment

A United States-based Nigerian Catholic nun and registered nurse, Sister Leticia “Letty” Ugboaja, has broken her silence after being detained by officials of the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), describing the experience as deeply traumatic and one she is yet to recover from.

Ugboaja, who was arrested in June while walking to attend Sunday Mass at Our Lady of Sorrows Catholic Church in South Texas near the U.S.-Mexico border, is expected to report to ICE officials on Tuesday as part of her immigration requirements.

Speaking publicly for the first time since the incident, the Nigerian-born nun said the encounter with immigration officers left her emotionally distressed.

According to her, she was stopped and taken into custody by armed ICE officers despite posing no threat.

“I was simply walking to Mass, as I do every Sunday and every day. Suddenly, two armed officers approached me. I am just a small woman, a nun, carrying only my rosary, keys and phone. It hurt me, and it still hurts,” she said.

The arrest attracted widespread attention after her parish disclosed the incident, prompting intervention from members of the U.S. House of Representatives from Texas, including Democrat Henry Cuellar and Republican Monica De La Cruz.

Following public outcry and appeals to the administration of President Donald Trump, Ugboaja was released later the same day.

Despite her release, the nun is required to report regularly to immigration authorities, with her next appointment scheduled for July 28.

She appealed to the U.S. government to ensure that individuals detained during immigration enforcement operations are given a fair opportunity to present their cases before being taken into custody.

“What I am asking is simple. Before anyone is removed from their home, workplace, church or even while walking on the street, they should be given the opportunity to be heard,” she said.

Ugboaja stressed that everyone facing immigration proceedings deserves a chance to explain their circumstances before any enforcement action is taken.

Her lawyer, Carlos Garcia, also expressed hope that his client would not be re-arrested or subjected to electronic monitoring during the scheduled appointment.

“We are asking that she not be detained and that no ankle monitor be placed on someone who has broken no law, poses no danger, and has devoted years to nursing and a lifetime to religious service,” Garcia said.

The case has continued to generate attention among religious and immigrant rights advocates, with many calling for greater fairness and due process in the enforcement of U.S. immigration laws.