An American Woman’s Unexpected Journey to Pakistan
In a storyline reminiscent of a dramatic soap opera, a 33-year-old American woman named Onijah Robinson journeyed from the U.S. to Pakistan, hoping to reunite with her 19-year-old boyfriend, Nidal Ahmed Memon. However, fate took an unexpected turn as Robinson found herself alone in a foreign land after her lover withdrew his commitment due to familial pressure, leaving her stranded with an expired tourist visa.
Onijah met Nidal through online channels, and despite her situation, she received support from local activist and YouTuber Zaffar Abbas. He shared her story on social media, prompting intervention from Sindh Governor Kamran Khan Tessori, who extended assistance to her.
Developments in the Love Saga
This tale of love quickly escalated into something more complex. Although Governor Tessori arranged for the extension of Robinson’s expired visa and facilitated her return flight home, Onijah had different intentions. She set up camp outside Nidal’s residence, waiting for him and his family, who had since disappeared.
After approximately 30 hours, she left for a Chhipa charity shelter, where she planned to stay until her return to the United States. The organization later hosted a press conference, urging Nidal to step forward and address the situation.
Controversial Requests and Revelations
During the press conference, Onijah made shocking statements, claiming that she was married to Nidal and demanding $100,000 to improve Pakistan’s infrastructure, describing the current situation as “ridiculous.” She also made two other astounding pleas: one for Nidal to pay her $3,000 a week (approximately PKR 9 lakh) and another to grant her Pakistani citizenship.
“I aim to rebuild this entire country. I am requesting $100,000, and I need $20,000 cash this week. This government needs to understand that Pakistan requires new buses, cabs, and cars,” Robinson stated during the press event.
Concerns about Mental Health
Her evolving demands and unexpected claims raised eyebrows regarding her mental well-being. Onijah not only resisted local police’s offers to provide her refuge in a women’s police station but also postponed her return flight to the U.S. Despite support from the U.S. Consulate and a pre-booked ticket, she delayed her departure, leading to a reported 36-minute hold-up, according to GeoTV.
Family Perspectives
Onijah’s son, Jeremiah Andrew Robinson, expressed concerns about his mother, describing her as “mentally ill” and struggling with bipolar disorder. He revealed that he and his siblings had attempted to persuade her to return to the U.S., but their efforts were unsuccessful.
Following his statements, Onijah was admitted to the psychiatry department at Karachi’s Jinnah Post Graduate Hospital for a mental health evaluation. Recent reports indicate that she is finally returning to the U.S. after an extended period in Pakistan.
Public Reactions
Responses from netizens varied widely. Pakistani life coach Saeed Malik noted, “She appears to be in a denial phase of grief, a common experience in our lives.” Another user humorously remarked, “This is the first time an American is pleading for Pakistani citizenship.”
An update confirmed that Onijah was en route back to the United States. According to her son, “I’m trying to help her return to the U.S. She initially went to Pakistan to meet Nidal and his family.”
