Nigerian Roman Catholic nun and nurse Leticia Ugboaja has been released from U.S. immigration detention after being arrested by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) while walking to church in South Texas on Sunday. The incident, which sparked widespread outrage and political intervention, occurred as Sister Letty, a member of the Daughters of Mary Mother of Mercy, was en route to Sunday Mass near the U.S.-Mexico border. She had been living and working in the United States for over a decade, serving as a certified nursing assistant in Texas. Her detention raised serious concerns about immigration enforcement practices and the treatment of religious individuals.
The Lady of Sorrows Church, where Sister Letty regularly attended services, issued a statement expressing concern for her well-being. “We ask our parish family to please keep this religious sister Letty in your prayers,” the church wrote on social media. “Reports indicate that she was detained by ICE while on her way to Sunday Mass. We pray for her safety, peace, and strength during this difficult time, and we hope for a swift and just resolution that allows her to be released soon.” The post quickly gained attention across social media platforms, drawing national scrutiny.
U.S. House Representatives from Texas, including Democrat Henry Cuellar and Republican Monica De La Cruz, stepped in to address the matter. Representative De La Cruz confirmed her team was working with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to gather details and elevated the case to senior administration levels. In a follow-up statement, she announced, “Following my advocacy to senior Administration officials, Sister Letty Ugboaja will be released. Please join me in praying for Sister Letty and the Daughters of Mary Mother of Mercy.” Sister Letty was eventually released from custody on Monday night, following these efforts.
Another representative, Democrat Lou Correa of California, raised the issue on the House floor, questioning the rationale behind detaining a woman who had contributed to American society for over ten years. He challenged the administration on how such an arrest enhanced national security. The case also drew attention from Latino advocacy groups, including LULAC, which petitioned Texas Senators Ted Cruz and John Cornyn for an investigation. “I demand an immediate investigation into why a Catholic nun, dressed in her religious habit and on her way to Sunday worship, was stopped and taken into custody by Border Patrol,” LULAC stated.
While Sister Letty’s release was welcomed, advocates emphasized that her detention was unjust and highlighted broader concerns about ICE and Customs and Border Protection (CBP) operations. The incident has reignited debates over immigration enforcement and the need for compassion in policy implementation. As the nation reflects on this event, questions remain about how to balance security with human dignity, especially for those who serve their communities in faith and service.
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