LEBRON JAMES SIGNS WITH PHILADELPHIA 76ERS.(PHOTO).
Sister Leticia Ugboaja, a 56‑year‑old nun described the fear she felt when armed ICE officers approached her on her way to Sunday Mass in McAllen, Texas. Carrying only her rosary and phone, she said she broke into a cold sweat as she was taken into custody without explanation.
Ugboaja, who has long been protected from deportation because of the risk of torture in her home country, was released hours later, but the incident drew attention after parish officials posted about it online and members of Congress intervened.
At a press conference, Ugboaja emphasized that many others in similar situations live with uncertainty despite following all legal requirements.
Her attorney explained that while her asylum claim was denied in 2019, she was granted protection from removal to Nigeria and has complied fully with U.S. immigration rules, working as a nurse and serving her church community.
He noted that ICE had planned to send her to a third country under a Trump‑era policy that has been criticized by human rights groups and challenged in court.
Ugboaja said she was heartbroken when officers refused to let her attend Mass that day, stressing that her faith is central to her life.
She expressed gratitude for the support she received but insisted she could not remain silent about her experience or the plight of others facing similar threats.
As a member of the Daughters of Mary Mother of Mercy and a longtime healthcare worker, she urged compassion and fairness in immigration enforcement, reminding the public that behind every case is a human being seeking dignity and safety.
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