Muhammed Babandede, Comptroller General Nigeria Immigration Service

The Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) has said it will deport 18 illegal immigrants from neighbouring Benin Republic and Togo for residing and working in the country illegally.

The illegal immigrants who were arrested by the Immigration command in Ogun state following a directive by the state comptroller, will be repatriated after profiling.

The spokesperson of the Immigration Service in the state, Olaniji Mobolaji disclosed that the 18 persons consisting of  eight Togolese and ten Benin nationals were apprehended at Akonu village following a tip off.

According to the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Protocol on Free movement, nationals of member states have the right of free-visa entry and residency after obtaining an ECOWAS residence card or permit but the right to establish a business in a member state is still undergoing scrutiny.