Ladidi Shaibu, a 32-year-old Nigerian woman with albinism, has been denied asylum in the United States after fleeing persecution in Africa, including a violent attack in Uganda. The US immigration court ruled against her claim, citing insufficient evidence of future persecution, despite documented threats and attacks linked to her condition.
Background of Persecution
Shaibu was born with albinism, a genetic condition that causes lack of pigment in skin, hair, and eyes. In many parts of Africa, people with albinism face severe discrimination, attacks, and even murder due to superstitious beliefs. According to the United Nations, at least 75 people with albinism were killed in Tanzania alone between 2000 and 2015, with many more attacks unreported.
Shaibu grew up in Nigeria, where she endured bullying and social exclusion. In 2019, she moved to Uganda seeking safety, but the threats continued. In 2021, she was attacked by a group of men who threw acid at her, causing severe burns on her arms and back. She reported the incident to Ugandan police, but no arrests were made.
US Asylum Case
Shaibu entered the United States in 2022 on a visitor visa and applied for asylum, arguing that she faced persecution based on her membership in a particular social group: persons with albinism. Her case was heard in immigration court in Houston, Texas. On June 28, 2026, Judge Maria Hernandez denied her application, ruling that while Shaibu had experienced past harm, she failed to prove that the Ugandan government was unable or unwilling to protect her.
Judge Hernandez stated: “The applicant has not demonstrated that the Ugandan authorities are complicit in the attacks or that she cannot relocate within Uganda to avoid future harm.” Shaibu’s lawyer, David Okonkwo, argued that relocation is not feasible because albinism is visible and stigma is widespread across the country.
Impact and Reactions
The decision has drawn criticism from human rights groups. Amnesty International’s Africa director, Muthoni Wanyeki, said: “This ruling ignores the reality that people with albinism face systemic violence and impunity across Africa. The US should offer protection to those fleeing such dangers.”
Shaibu now faces potential deportation to Uganda, where she says her life remains at risk. According to the United Nations, Uganda recorded at least 10 attacks against people with albinism in 2025, including two murders. Shaibu expressed despair: “I have nowhere to go. I thought America would be safe, but now I am terrified.”
Broader Context
The case highlights challenges faced by asylum seekers with albinism from Africa. In 2023, the US granted asylum to only 23 percent of applicants from African countries, according to the Department of Homeland Security. Advocates argue that albinism-related persecution is often misunderstood by courts, which require clear evidence of government involvement.
Shaibu’s appeal is pending, and she remains in the US under supervised release. The outcome could set a precedent for future cases involving albinism and other disability-based persecution claims.
