Mental Illness Stigma in Nigeria Saves Crack Cocaine Dealer from Deportation
In a dramatic judicial decision, a Nigerian national convicted of armed robbery and crack cocaine dealing has been permitted to remain in the United Kingdom. The decision by the judge was on grounds that, if deported to Nigeria, he would be exposed to severe stigma and inadequate mental health care due to his psychotic condition, which Nigerians typically interpret as demonic possession. (Source)
Case Background
The individual in question, whose identity has been protected for legal reasons, has a documented history of criminality within the UK, including armed robbery and crack cocaine dealing. It was found through legal proceedings that he suffers from a severe psychotic disorder. His defense argued that deportation to Nigeria would put him at risk of serious harm due to the stigma surrounding mental illness and association with supernatural beliefs within Nigeria. (Source)
Stigma of Mental Illness in Nigeria
Mental illness in Nigeria is largely enveloped by stigma and misconception. The majority of the population holds the belief that mental illnesses are the result of supernatural or magical forces, such as curses or possession by demons. Such a belief brings enormous discrimination towards individuals with mental illness, discouraging them from consulting professionals. (Source)
The stigma is religious and culturally embedded, with mental illness sometimes thought to be a result of moral failure or spiritual sickness. This perception not only socially excludes the sick but also fosters a culture in which matters of mental health are not openly talked about or adequately addressed. (Source)
Challenges in Nigeria's Mental Health Care System
Nigeria's mental health care system is beset by a number of challenges, among them a huge shortage of mental health professionals. With a population of more than 200 million, the nation has only approximately 350 psychiatrists. This shortage means that there is a situation where approximately 80% of individuals who have serious mental health needs are unable to access appropriate care. (Source)
Additionally, the mental health centers are mostly concentrated in urban cities, and rural residents find it difficult to get to them. The lack of facilities, tools, and mental health professionals further widens the gap in treatment, depriving many of the attention they require. (Source)
Legal Precedents and Human Rights Considerations
This is not an isolated instance; there have been similar instances where individuals have been kept from being deported from the UK on account of inadequate mental health care in their homelands. A county lines gang boss, for example, succeeded on the basis that deportation to Nigeria would be against his rights to a family life under the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR), in part due to concerns over access to psychiatric care. (Source)
The ECHR provides a forum for the protection of individuals' rights, including the right to private and family life. Courts have construed such rights to include access to necessary medical care, considering the harm that individuals would subject themselves to in case of their deportation to countries with inadequate health care systems.
Cultural Perceptions and Their Impact
In Nigeria, cultural belief influences the perception of mental health profoundly. Mental illness is perceived in terms of spiritual illness, hence most individuals desire treatment from traditional healers or religious leaders over medical doctors. This has the effect of retarding effective care and perpetuating the stigma of mental health disorder. (Source)
The application of non-medical interventions is also due to the low level of mental health service availability and the stigma surrounding mental illness in society. This results in social exclusion, discrimination, and violation of the human rights of individuals with mental health conditions.
Efforts to Address Mental Health Stigma in Nigeria
Various efforts have been made to combat stigma related to mental health in Nigeria. These include public campaigns, policy reform, and mainstreaming of mental health care in primary health care. Groups and champions are promoting public education, empathy, and acceptance of mental health issues. (Source)
These efforts aside, vast challenges remain. The beliefs embedded in culture and shortage of mental health professionals hinder progress. Ongoing advocacy, education, and investment in the mental health system are needed to achieve sustainable change.
Conclusion
The Nigerian citizen who fled deportation out of fear of stigmatization on account of mental illness issues and poor mental health treatment at home in his native country speaks to the complexities of the blending of law, culture, and health care. It highlights the need to challenge stigma for mental illness and expand Nigerian mental facilities to treat with improved care and concern those both abroad and back home.
Through identifying and solving these problems, Nigeria may work towards having a more equal society that takes into consideration the mental well-being of everyone.