The Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) has announced the repatriation of a Zimbabwean Bishop, Mr Eben Nhiwatawi citing violation of immigration laws for the reason.
The Zimbabwean Bishop Nhiwatiwa of the United Methodist Church was reportedly detained by Nigerian Immigration authorities, despite having all necessary documents.
However in statement on Wednesday, by the Service Public Relations Officer, DCI KT Udo said that the Comptroller General, Nigeria Immigration Service, with Ministerial approval, has ordered his immediate repatriation from the country.
Udo explained that while the Service encourages lawful inflow of Foreign Direct Investment and individuals engaging in business and social activities, the NIS as key facilitators of economic growth and development, will not tolerate any violation of the country’s Immigration laws.
The statement partly read: “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 (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.”
It added, “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.”
Bishop Nhiwatiwa arrived in Nigeria on August 21, 2024, to oversee the election of a new bishop for the church’s Nigerian chapter, following the resignation of Bishop John Wesley Yohanna, former bishop.
His detention raised concerns, as he was in Nigeria for official church business.