The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has deported a Zimbabwean Bishop for breaching Nigeria’s immigration laws and protocols.
According to a statement issued by the Public Relations Officer of the NIS, Kenneth Udo, the deportation was authorized by the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo.
The Bishop, identified as Eben K. Nhiwatawi, was arrested in Yola, Adamawa State on August 24 for violating immigration regulations.
Udo explained that the Bishop had entered Nigeria on August 21, 2024, using a Tourist Visa (F5A), which is strictly intended for tourism activities.
However, it was discovered that he was participating in a Methodist Church leadership election, an activity that clearly contravened the conditions of his visa, as outlined in the Nigeria Visa Policy 2024.
Following this violation, the Comptroller General of the NIS, with approval from the Minister of Interior, ordered the immediate deportation of the Bishop.
The statement read: “The Bishop arrived in the country on 21st August, 2024, with a Tourist Visa (F5A) 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.”