The case of a Nigerian schoolgirl facing deportation for overstaying her visa is due to be considered today.

Adeoti Ogunsola, 10, a pupil at St Mary’s Catholic Primary school, Gillingham, apparently tried to take her own life rather than be sent back to her home country.

It was reported in national media she used an electric cord on a kettle to strangle herself, fearing she would lose her life if she returned to Nigeria.

She was being held at Tinsley House immigration removal centre (IRC) near Gatwick airport with her mother Clementina.

Clementina had been detained earlier in the year and was refusing to tell officials where her daughter was staying.

She was later found with a relative living in Gillingham.

On Thursday, October 22, the two, who have been in England for more than five years, won their injunction against deportation having outstayed their visas.

Their case will be reconsidered today.

According to the Ogunsolas’ solicitor, Birnberg Peirce, a psychotherapist has warned that Adeoti suffers from complex post-traumatic stress disorder.

A report into her condition warns that if she was detained again she might attempt to kill herself.

Gillingham MP Paul Clark (Lab), said the situation is one that will "sadden everyone in Gillingham".

"I requested and secured an urgent meeting with immigration minister Phil Woolas and as a result of that the officials at the Home Office determined that a judge must make a decision about Adeoti’s future."

A spokesman for the UK border agency, said: "Treating children with care and compassion is a priority for the UK Border Agency.

"When the independent courts find a family has no need for protection we expect them to return home. If they refuse to leave voluntarily we have no choice but to enforce their removal, and this can include detaining children, but only as a very last resort."