Chicago Man Faces Denaturalization Proceedings Over Alleged Immigration Fraud and Concealment of Identity
Husneara Choudhury:
— A Chicago resident who became a U.S. citizen nearly 15 years ago is facing legal proceedings to revoke his citizenship after the federal government accused him of concealing his previous identity and withholding critical information during the immigration process.
According to Newsweek, the U.S. government filed a lawsuit on October 7 against Emmanuel Tayo Akinkunmi, alleging that he obtained lawful permanent residency and subsequently U.S. citizenship by concealing material information about his immigration history.
Court filings reportedly state that Akinkunmi took the oath of U.S. citizenship on June 8, 2011. However, federal authorities allege that he had previously used a different identity and faced restrictions related to entering the United States.
According to the government’s allegations, Akinkunmi later applied for a green card under a different identity without disclosing relevant details about his previous immigration history. Authorities further allege that he failed to provide material information when he applied for naturalization in 2010.
The federal government argues that the alleged omissions raise questions about whether Akinkunmi lawfully obtained his citizenship. The case is part of broader federal efforts to pursue denaturalization proceedings against individuals suspected of obtaining U.S. citizenship through fraud or material misrepresentation.
Under U.S. law, citizenship obtained through certain forms of fraud or concealment can be revoked through legal proceedings. However, the government must establish the applicable legal grounds, and the outcome depends on the court’s determination.
The filing of a denaturalization lawsuit does not mean that citizenship has already been revoked. The allegations remain subject to judicial review, and a final ruling will determine the outcome of the case.
