University demands release of detained California nurse

Following numerous calls california residents and academic officials have escalated pressure for the release of Ann Lawani, a 39-year-old nurse and professor who was taken from her Lodi home by immigration agents in September. Since her arrest, she has been transferred across detention facilities in California, Texas, and Louisiana through opaque procedures. University of San Francisco nursing dean Eileen Fry-Bowers emphasized the urgency of her return, noting that Lawani directs two key academic programs and engages regularly with nearly 300 students.

Lawani arrived in the United States in 2007 on a visitor's visa which she subsequently overstayed, according to a Department of Homeland Security spokesperson who noted a 2013 removal order. However, her attorney Natalia Santanna clarified that an immigration judge simultaneously granted withholding of removal after finding Lawani would likely face persecution if returned to Nigeria. Santanna stated that Lawani has lived in the country legally under this provision since 2013 and confirmed that a habeas petition has been filed in California's eastern district court.

University officials and students are strongly advocating for the release of detained professor Ann Lawani.

The detention has triggered widespread mobilization among students, colleagues, and local lawmakers. Student Casey Murray highlighted Lawani's dedication to her pupils as they approach graduation. In late October, Representative Josh Harder formally raised concerns with DHS Secretary Markwayne Mullin regarding the lack of advance notice prior to her arrest and the absence of clear tracking data in the online detainee system, questioning the public safety justification for her continued detention.

Why it matters

The ongoing detention of Ann Lawani highlights the complex intersection of immigration enforcement and community ties within higher education. The situation directly impacts hundreds of nursing students and patients who rely on her expertise in palliative and hospice care.