As the African singer fights deportation, Simon Cowell has reportedly pledged to help her stay in the UK.
Earlier this week it was revealed rejected X Factor contestant Gamu Nhengu could face deportation to Africa, after her British visa was denied. But following public outrage at the official decision, now Simon Cowell has offered his support, pledging to help the singer stay in the UK.
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The denial of the right of Gamu and her family to remain in the country came after officials reportedly discovered the singer’s mother, Nokuthula Ngazana, had claimed up to £16,000 in benefits, while working as a nurse.
But Gamu’s family have already confirmed they’ll be lodging an appeal against the Border Agency's decision, and ‘strongly refute’ allegations of wrongly claimed public money.
‘My client has lived here for eight years, always legally and on proper visas,’ Gamu’s laywer said yesterday. 'I'm now certain there is grounds to put in an appeal.'
Now X Factor boss Simon Cowell has waded into the row, reportedly saying he ‘do whatever it takes’ to help Gamu in her fight against being kicked out of the country.
‘He's made it quite clear that he'll help out,’ one insider told the Daily Record.
‘Although she's no longer on this year's show, she's captured the public's imagination and has shown she's got something special to offer the UK.
‘Perhaps more importantly, Simon is very aware how Gamu and her family have settled in Scotland, and how it will be deeply upsetting for her to leave everyone behind.’
Meanwhile, thousands of fans have joined the fight to keep Gamu in the UK, by signing an official online petition. The list is targeted at the Home Office, and has already amassed a whopping 3,354 signatures.
What are your thoughts on Gamu’s fight to stay in the UK? Should the singer be allowed to settle in Britain? Let us know in the comments box below.
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