AN APPEAL by Nigerian woman Pamela Izevbekhai aimed at halting the deportation of herself and her two young daughters is expected to be heard in July at the Supreme Court.
Chief Justice Mr Justice John Murray was told yesterday that Ms Izevbekhai’s new lawyers were preparing affidavits for the appeal and were in contact with Nigeria in that regard.
Ms Izevbekhai says the family should not be returned to Nigeria on grounds there is a real risk her daughters will be subjected to genital mutilation.
After it was revealed last month that some documents used to support Ms Izevbekhai’s claim to stay here had been forged, her lawyers were given leave to cease representing her.
Ms Izevbekhai was given some time to instruct new lawyers.
Sunniva McDonagh SC, for Ms Izevbekhai, said yesterday that they were not yet in a position to file affidavits. Solicitor Kevin Brophy had made great efforts here and in Nigeria to get affidavits, she said.
Hugh Mohan SC, for the State, said there was a “long history” to this litigation and he was seeking a hearing date for the appeal.