The Nigeria Immigration Service, NIS, has ordered the immediate repatriation of a Zimbabwean cleric, Eben Nhiwatiwa, for allegedly violating immigration laws.
This was disclosed in a statement by the NIS Public Relations Officer, Kenneth Udo, on Wednesday in Abuja.
According to the News Agency of Nigeria, Nhiwatiwa was arrested by NIS operatives on 24 August in Yola, Adamawa, for allegedly breaching immigration protocols.
The cleric, who entered Nigeria on 21 August with a Tourist Visa (F5A), was accused of participating in the Methodist Church leadership election, which is a clear violation of the visa conditions that permit only tourism activities.
“However, it was discovered he participated in the Methodist Church leadership election process,” Udo stated. “This is in clear violation of the terms and privileges associated with the Tourist Visa as provided in the Nigeria Visa Policy 2024.”
Following the infraction, the NIS Comptroller General, Kemi Nandap, with approval from the Ministry, ordered Nhiwatiwa’s immediate repatriation.
“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,” Udo emphasised.
“NIS will not tolerate any violation of the country’s Immigration laws.”
The NIS spokesperson also assured that the Service remains committed to safeguarding Nigeria’s national security and will continue to monitor foreign nationals’ activities to ensure compliance with the law.
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