A Nigerian woman’s long-anticipated trip to the United States ended in devastation after U.S. immigration officials denied her entry and deported her within hours, allegedly over a social media post referencing plans to buy luxury hair products for resale.
The unnamed woman, who had secured a valid tourist visa, landed in the U.S. earlier this week full of excitement. However, her dreams were cut short at the immigration checkpoint when Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers flagged her for additional scrutiny. As part of standard secondary screening, officers reportedly requested access to her social media profiles—a process that has become increasingly common in U.S. immigration procedures.
According to reports obtained by Oriental Times, a post where she mentioned her intention to buy “quality hair for clients back home” was interpreted by officials as an intent to engage in unauthorized business activity while on a B1/B2 visitor visa. Under U.S. immigration law, such a visa prohibits any form of work or business transactions, including retail activities—even if goods are purchased legally for others.
The decision led to immediate revocation of her entry clearance. Within hours, she was placed on a return flight to Nigeria, deeply shaken and humiliated by the experience. Friends close to the woman say she was unaware that a casual social media update could jeopardize her immigration status.
Legal practitioners have since weighed in. Lagos-based immigration lawyer Adaora Nwankwo stated, “Many travelers don’t realize that digital footprints are now fair game. A single post—however innocent it may seem—can unravel an entire visa claim if it appears inconsistent with the purpose of travel.”
The story has ignited heated debates across social media, where users express both outrage and caution. Some argue the U.S. acted harshly, while others emphasize the need for travelers to educate themselves thoroughly on visa terms, especially in a digital age where online statements can serve as official evidence.
Experts now advise travelers to review their public posts before international trips and ensure that nothing on their pages contradicts the declared purpose of their travel documents. “Social media is no longer private when you’re standing at an international border,” said Nwankwo.
