LunagisthubControversy Surrounds Release of Chinese Nationals Arrested for Immigration Violations
Five Chinese nationals arrested by the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) for alleged immigration violations have been released after reportedly lobbying by a retired senior immigration officer. The individuals were arrested on August 12, 2025, during a joint operation with the Department of State Services (DSS) for various offenses, including quota trafficking and visa misuse.
The arrested individuals were working at Nigeria Royal Castle Ceramic Company Limited in Sagamu, Ogun State, which was found to have committed massive irregularities, including operating without necessary permits and employing expatriates without lawful transfer or quota slot approvals. Despite the severity of the offenses, the five Chinese nationals were released after alleged lobbying by a retired immigration chief.
The NIS investigation revealed that Royal Castle Ceramics had failed to comply with statutory reporting obligations and had defaulted on tax remittances. The company’s actions were categorized as quota trafficking, with some expatriates recruited under inappropriate visa categories.
– Five Chinese nationals arrested for immigration violations were released after alleged lobbying.
– Nigeria Royal Castle Ceramic Company Limited was found to have committed massive irregularities.
– The company operated without necessary permits and employed expatriates without lawful transfer or quota slot approvals.
– The release of the Chinese nationals has sparked outrage among observers, who warn that insider protection may embolden expatriate companies to flout Nigerian laws.
The controversy surrounding the release of the Chinese nationals highlights the need for strict enforcement of immigration laws and regulations in Nigeria.
Lunagisthub
