Nigeria Immigration Service on Wednesday, August 28, ordered the immediate repatriation of Zimbabwean cleric Eben Nhiwatawi for allegedly breaching immigration regulations.
According to a statement from NIS spokesperson Kenneth Udo, Nhiwatawi was apprehended by officials on Saturday, August 24, in Yola, the capital of Adamawa State.
Udo explained that Nhiwatawi arrived in Nigeria on August 21, holding a Tourist Visa (F5A) intended exclusively for tourism.
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“However, it was discovered he participated in the Methodist Church leadership election process.
“This 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 NIS Comptroller General, Kemi Nandap with Ministerial approval, has ordered his immediate repatriation from the country.
“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 stated.
He further emphasized that the service would not tolerate any breaches of the nation’s immigration laws, remaining steadfast in its commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s national security.
