In a statement released on Wednesday, August 28, by Public Relations Officer Kenneth Udo, the NIS condemned the Bishop’s actions as a clear breach of the tourist visa regulations as outlined in the Nigeria Visa Policy 2024.
The statement detailed that:
“On August 24, 2024, Mr. Eben K. Nhiwatawi, a Zimbabwean Bishop, was apprehended in Yola, Adamawa State, for violating immigration protocols. He arrived in Nigeria on August 21, 2024, with a Tourist Visa (F5A), which is intended exclusively for tourism.
However, he was discovered participating in the Methodist Church leadership election process, which contravenes the terms and privileges of the Tourist Visa according to the Nigeria Visa Policy 2024.
As a result, the Comptroller General of the Nigeria Immigration Service, with Ministerial approval, has mandated his immediate deportation from the country.
While the Service supports the lawful entry of foreign direct investment and individuals involved in business and social activities as vital to economic growth, it will not tolerate breaches of immigration laws.
The Service remains dedicated to maintaining national security and will continue to scrutinize the activities of foreigners to enforce compliance,” the statement concluded.
