The Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) has announced the repatriation of Bishop Eben Nhiwatiwa, a Zimbabwean citizen, due to alleged violations of immigration laws.
Bishop Nhiwatiwa, who arrived in Nigeria on August 21, 2024, to oversee the election of a new bishop for the United Methodist Church’s Nigerian chapter, was arrested and detained by immigration authorities on August 23, 2024, in Yola, Adamawa State.
Despite having necessary documents, he was taken into custody and later transferred to Abuja, where he was held at the Immigration headquarters.
However, a statement on Wednesday by spokesman of the service, DCI KT Udo, stated that the repatriation was ordered by the Comptroller General with ministerial approval, citing the need to enforce immigration laws and regulate foreign activities in the country.
The statement reads in part: “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.”
