The Nigeria Immigration Service has deported a Zimbabwean Bishop, Eben K. Nhiwatawi who was in Nigeria to participate in the election process of the United Methodist Church of Nigeria.
Bishop Nhiwatawi, was whisked away from the Yola venue of the Methodist assembly and moved to Abuja. NIS spokesperson Kenneth Udo, said in a statement Wednesday that the repatriation of the Bishop was approved by the Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo.
The NIS said Bishop Nhiwatawi, who arrived in Nigeria with a Tourist Visa (F5A), meant solely for tourism purposes, was intercepted in Yola, Adamawa State, on August 24, during a Methodist Church leadership election.
Udo said the Bishop arrived in the country on August 21, 2024, with a Tourist Visa (F5A), meant solely for tourism purposes.
“However, he was discovered to be participating in the 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.”
