The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has ordered the immediate re-arrest of five Chinese nationals working with Royal Castle Ceramics in Ogun State, following widespread outrage over their sudden release despite earlier deportation orders.
The expatriates, who were initially apprehended for multiple immigration violations, had been freed under controversial circumstances allegedly facilitated by a retired immigration officer. Their discharge, which contradicted existing deportation directives, sparked public condemnation and raised questions about accountability within the system.
According to sources within the NIS, the affected Chinese nationals were operating in Nigeria with temporary work permits and business visas that had either expired or were improperly issued. Investigations further revealed that the expatriates were engaged in job roles beyond the scope of their permits, a clear violation of Nigeria’s immigration laws.
In a swift reaction, the Ministry of Interior confirmed that a comprehensive review of expatriate quotas and work permits in the manufacturing sector has commenced. The ministry expressed concern that foreign nationals were increasingly taking advantage of loopholes in the system to exploit Nigeria’s labor and economic space.
“The Nigeria Immigration Service will not condone any abuse of our immigration laws,” an official who spoke on condition of anonymity said. “The re-arrest order is in line with due process, and those found guilty of aiding their unlawful stay will also face sanctions.”
Royal Castle Ceramics, the Ogun-based company at the center of the controversy, has not issued any official statement regarding the re-arrest order. However, industry observers believe the case may trigger a wider clampdown on manufacturing firms suspected of shielding expatriates with questionable documentation.
This latest development underscores growing concerns over the integrity of Nigeria’s expatriate quota system, which critics argue has been riddled with corruption and manipulation, often to the detriment of local employment opportunities.
The five Chinese nationals are expected to be taken into custody again in the coming days pending the enforcement of the original deportation order.