Iowa City Couple Sues Over Canceled Naturalization Ceremony

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A University of Iowa professor and his wife have filed a lawsuit against the federal government after their naturalization ceremony was allegedly canceled due to the administration's restrictions on Nigerian nationals entering the country. The couple, Sunday and Regina Goshit, claim the cancelation was illegal and are seeking a response from the government within two months.

Why it matters

This case highlights ongoing legal battles over immigration policies and citizenship processes, especially for individuals from certain nationalities that have faced increased restrictions under recent administrations. The cancelation of the Goshits' naturalization ceremony raises questions about due process and equal treatment under the law.

The details

Sunday Goshit, an adjunct assistant professor of International Studies at the University of Iowa, passed his naturalization exam last year after living in the U.S. for 25 years. However, the Goshits' lawyers say their naturalization ceremony was canceled one month before it was scheduled to take place, with the federal government citing 'unforeseen circumstances.' The lawsuit alleges this cancelation was due to the administration's announced restrictions on Nigerian nationals entering the country.

• Sunday Goshit passed his naturalization exam last year.
• The Goshits' naturalization ceremony was scheduled to take place one month before it was canceled.

What’s next

The Goshits' lawyers say the federal government has two months to respond to the lawsuit.