HUMSI — Human Security Initiative

Human Impact Project

A living database documenting reported immigration enforcement incidents and their human impact.

Jelili Q.: Nigerian imam with 17 years of check-ins detained by ICE in Chicago

Jelili Qudus, a Nigerian imam who leads weekly prayers and feeds people in need, was re-detained after 17 years of check-ins, then freed by a judge who found his rights violated.

Jan 20, 2026Chicago, ILCountry of origin: Nigeria

Jelili Q.: Nigerian imam with 17 years of check-ins detained by ICE in Chicago
Photo via Newsweek

Jelili Qudus, a Nigerian described in court filings as a Muslim faith leader who conducts weekly prayers, visits the sick, and distributes food to people in need, was re-detained when he appeared for his annual ICE check-in in Chicago after approximately 17 years of complying with an Order of Supervision. He was subsequently held at Camp East Montana in El Paso, Texas. A federal judge later granted his habeas petition and ordered his immediate release under supervision, finding that immigration authorities violated his due process rights by re-detaining him without providing required notice or an opportunity to respond.

Suggest a correction, comment, or update

Tags

Sources

Similar Incidents

Loading…

More incidents in Illinois