The Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) has deported a Zimbabwean bishop following a dispute related to the Methodist Church election. The move highlights tensions within the church’s leadership

Eben K. Nhiwatawi, a Zimbabwean Bishop, has been deported by the Nigeria Immigration Service for his involvement in the Methodist Church leadership election while being on a tourist visa.

The Nigerian Immigration Service, through its Public Relations Officer Kenneth Udo, issued a statement on Wednesday condemning the actions of the Bishop as they violated the terms and privileges associated with tourist visas outlined in Nigeria’s Visa Policy 2024.

Part of the declaration stated that on August 24th, 2024, Bishop Eben K. Nhiwatawi from Zimbabwe was apprehended for breaking Immigration regulations in Yola, Adamawa State.

On 21st August 2024, the Bishop entered the country using a Tourist Visa (F5A) which was issued specifically for purposes related to tourism.

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Nevertheless, it was discovered that he had engaged in the Methodist Church leadership election procedure, which goes against the conditions and entitlements presented in the Nigeria Visa Policy 2024 for a Tourist Visa.

As a result of the aforementioned, approval from the Minister and the Comptroller General of Nigeria’s Immigration Service have led to his swift deportation from the country.

Although promoting the legal entry of Foreign Direct Investment and individuals involved in business and social activities is crucial for economic growth, the Service will not condone any breach of immigration regulations.

The Service is dedicated to safeguarding the national security of the country and will persist in observing the actions of foreigners for this objective.