A federal court in the United States has temporarily halted the deportation of Matthew Ariwoola, a Nigerian PhD chemistry student at the University of South Carolina, after his student visa was wrongly revoked in connection with a criminal case he says he has no ties to.

 

The visa was canceled by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) on April 8, 2025, citing a 2023 arrest warrant from the state of Georgia. Ariwoola has denied any involvement and claims he has never even visited the state. DHS has since admitted the revocation was based on mistaken identity.

 

Following the visa cancellation, Ariwoola was forced to stop attending classes and suspend his academic research. The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) of South Carolina quickly filed a legal challenge on his behalf.

 

On April 18, U.S. District Judge Jacquelyn Austin issued a 14-day temporary restraining order, preventing Ariwoola’s removal and restoring his student rights. His visa status was later reinstated in the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS), which monitors international students.

 

Judge Austin extended the order three times before issuing a preliminary injunction on June 13, barring the federal government from pursuing any further action against Ariwoola until the case is resolved. In her decision, the judge affirmed the court’s jurisdiction and acknowledged the constitutional issues raised.

 

Ariwoola expressed relief over the ruling, calling it a win for all international students who may face unjust treatment.

“This victory, though temporary, is a huge source of hope for international students who are unfairly targeted,” he said. “I’m especially thankful to the ACLU-SC and the court for ensuring that justice prevails. I hope this encourages others to speak up and fight back.”

 

The case comes amid heightened immigration enforcement under President Donald Trump, who resumed office in January 2025. His administration has been pursuing aggressive deportation policies, with international students increasingly affected.

 

For now, Ariwoola remains in the U.S., continuing both his studies and legal battle.