Nigeria Deports Zimbabwean Cleric For Flouting Immigration Laws

The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has ordered the immediate repatriation of a Zimbabwean cleric, Mr. Eben Nhiwatawi, for allegedly violating Nigeria’s immigration laws.

In a statement released on Wednesday by spokesman, Mr. Kenneth Udo, the NIS disclosed that Nhiwatawi was apprehended by immigration operatives on August 24 in Yola, Adamawa State.

The cleric was reportedly found to have breached the terms of his visa, which was issued solely for tourism purposes.

According to the statement, Nhiwatawi entered Nigeria on August 21 with a Tourist Visa (F5A). However, the cleric participated in a Methodist Church leadership election process, an activity that falls outside the scope of the visa’s permitted use.

Udo said while the NIS supports the lawful inflow of foreign direct investment and the participation of individuals in business and social activities, it will not condone any breaches of Nigeria’s immigration regulations.

The statement reads, “On 24th August, 2024, Mr. Eben K. Nhiwatawi, a Zimbabwean Bishop, was apprehended in Yola, Adamawa State over violation of Immigration protocols.

“The Bishop arrived in the country on 21st August, 2024, with a Tourist Visa (FSA) meant solely for tourism purposes. However, he was discovered to be participating in Methodist Church leadership election process which is in clear violation of the terms and privileges associated with the Tourist Visa as provided in the Nigeria Visa Policy 2024.

“In light of the above, the Comptroller General, Nigeria Immigration Service, with Ministerial approval, has ordered his immediate repatriation from the country.

“While the Service encourages lawful inflow of Foreign Direct Investment and individuals engaging in business and social activities, as key facilitators of economic growth and development, it will not tolerate any violation of the country’s Immigration laws.

“The Service remains committed to preserving the country’s National Security and will continue to monitor the activities of foreigners for such purposes.”