US to revoke citizenship of three Nigerians in major crackdown

The U.S. Department of Justice has launched an unprecedented initiative, revoking the citizenship of naturalized Americans accused of obtaining it through fraudulent means. This coordinated effort, described as the largest in the department's history, involves civil denaturalization actions filed against 25 individuals from 17 countries.

The allegations range widely, including identity fraud, sham marriages, violent crimes, child sexual abuse, and financial crimes. These cases represent individuals who allegedly concealed facts or engaged in misrepresentations that would have disqualified them from becoming U.S. citizens. The filings occurred in various U.S. district courts between July 20 and August 3, 2026.

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Today's filings represent the largest coordinated denaturalization effort in Department history, but they are only the beginning. The Justice Department will continue to use every tool available to protect the integrity of the naturalization process and the safety of the American people.

Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche emphasized that U.S. citizenship is a significant privilege that must be earned lawfully. "Today's filings represent the largest coordinated denaturalization effort in Department history, but they are only the beginning," Blanche stated. "The Justice Department will continue to use every tool available to protect the integrity of the naturalization process and the safety of the American people."

Assistant Attorney General Brett A. Shumate highlighted the record speed of these actions, noting that "Every one of these individuals committed crimes incompatible with U.S. citizenship." The department has filed 123 civil denaturalization complaints since January 20, 2025, the highest number ever recorded. Under the U.S. Immigration and Nationality Act, citizenship can be revoked if obtained illegally or through concealment of material facts or deliberate misrepresentation. Among those targeted are three Nigerians, including Jonathan Omorogieva Obasohan, who allegedly concealed a previous identity and a deportation order.

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Today marks the largest denaturalization surge in recorded history. Every one of these individuals committed crimes incompatible with U.S. citizenship. We are moving at record speed to denaturalize those who sought to deceive the federal government and abuse the naturalization process.