Nigerian arrested at Aldergrove claimed he was kidnapped eight years ago

Adedapo Adekunle told officials he was trying to get to London to reunite with his wife and see his daughter for the first time, lawyers said.

The 46-year-old, of no fixed address, faces charges of illegal entry to the UK and possessing a false British driving licence.

He was refused bail amid concerns he may flee.

Adekunle was intercepted by immigration officers at Belfast International Airport on May 15.

Prosecution barrister Stephanie Boyd said he made a full admission when challenged about a carrying an identity document with a different name.

“He revealed his true intentions were to deceive officers at the checkpoint so he could proceed to London where he has a wife and children,” she added.

Adekunle claimed to have crossed the border from the Republic of Ireland after travelling through four or five other countries.

Now seeking asylum, he told the authorities that he had left Africa with the assistance of a “facilitator”.

Defence counsel said Adekunle was allegedly kidnapped while working for a drilling company eight years ago.

“He was being provided with transport by a facilitator, but his knowledge of where he was wouldn’t be particularly reliable,” the lawyer added.

“He explained that he came by land, sea and air.

“His intention was to get to London to be with his wife - he has two children, and he has never seen his daughter who is now aged seven.”

But denying bail, Madam Justice ruled that the application was premature.

She also pointed out: “It’s clear that he is a person who has ready access to a supply of false documents and it’s my view he would be able to flee if he so wished.”