Sani Backs FG’s Directive To Withdraw Passports Of Former Citizens

Former Kaduna Central senator, Shehu Sani, has thrown his weight behind the federal government’s decision to withdraw and deactivate Nigerian passports belonging to individuals who have formally renounced their citizenship.

The move follows a directive issued by the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, instructing the Nigeria Immigration Service to immediately revoke passports of persons whose renunciation has been officially approved.

Reacting via his verified X account on Saturday, Sani described the policy as appropriate and necessary, stressing that decisions to change nationality must be fully respected and enforced.

“The withdrawal of the passports of those who renounced their Nigerian citizenship is the right thing to do,” he said.

He added, “When people decide to change nationality, their choice should be respected, and it should be enforced completely. Trump’s doctrine is clear: If you don’t like our country, go to where you like.”

The directive applies to Nigerians who have completed the constitutional process of renouncing their citizenship and are no longer legally recognised as citizens of the country.

Tunji-Ojo said the measure is aimed at ensuring that individuals who have ceased to be Nigerians do not retain access to sovereign documents, including passports.

According to the minister, the policy forms part of broader reforms within Nigeria’s immigration and identity management system to curb misuse of travel documents and enhance border security.

He further noted that the government will continue to strengthen safeguards around citizenship and national documentation to ensure that only eligible individuals retain access to official Nigerian credentials.