Ann Lawani, a nursing professional and academic at the University of San Francisco (USF), was taken from her home in Lodi, California, in September 2026.
Nearly two months later, students and staff at USF continue to advocate for her release, emphasizing her central role in both clinical practice and student mentorship.
Academic Role and Student Impact
Lawani holds leadership positions in two key programs: a master’s entry program designed for non-nursing graduates and a bachelor’s degree track focused on public health safety-net institutions. She oversees approximately 300 students directly through regular academic engagement.
Eileen Fry-Bowers, dean of the nursing school at USF: "She basically has her hands on almost 300 students that she engages with on a regular basis."
Casey Murray, a graduate student in nursing science, described Lawani as a warm educator who remembers first- and last names of students even after orientation sessions have ended. As graduation approaches in 37 days, Murray stated: "We want her at our graduation, and we want her home with her family."
Detention History and Legal Status
Federal immigration officials state that Lawani entered the United States on a visitor’s visa in 2007 and overstayed it.
In August 2013, according to a Department of Homeland Security (DHS) spokesperson, an immigration judge issued a final order of removal against her.
Natalia Santanna, attorney for Ann Lawani: "Dr Lawani applied for asylum within one year of entering the US. In the same 2013 order, the immigration judge found she would more likely than not face persecution in Nigeria and granted withholding of removal. That is not a temporary stay—it is a continuing bar to removal."
Santanna confirmed that Lawani has resided legally in the United States since 2013 under this protection from deportation.
A habeas corpus petition challenging her detention was filed in California’s eastern district court as of late October 2026. The case remains pending.
Public Response and Political Pressure
The University of San Francisco responded swiftly after learning about Lawani's arrest, with faculty members reporting she had been absent from meetings—behavior inconsistent with her usual presence.
In a letter to DHS Secretary Markwayne Mullin dated October 29, 2026, Congressman Josh Harder expressed concern over the lack of prior notice before her arrest and noted that her whereabouts were not reflected in public immigration databases.
Josh Harder: "Given her longstanding compliance, lack of criminal history, and substantial community ties, there is no apparent public safety justification for keeping her detained thousands of miles from home while her case proceeds."
Fry-Bowers praised Lawani’s work in hospice and palliative care: "She cares for the most vulnerable, helps them maintain their dignity and comfort as they prepare for death. She is a consummate professional. The highest praise I could ever give a nursing colleague is that I would want them taking care of my family member or myself—and she would be at the top of the list."
As of this reporting, no official confirmation has been issued regarding whether Lawani will be released or transferred to another facility. Her legal status remains under judicial review.