A Nigerian national, Kelechi Godwin, 52, is facing criminal charges in Zimbabwe over an alleged five-year fake marriage scheme aimed at securing residency.
According to prosecutors, between 2009 and 2014, Godwin forged documents, including spousal letters purportedly from his wife, Patience Godwin, to obtain immigration permits.
Investigators revealed that Patience had not been in Zimbabwe since 2008, raising doubts about the validity of the documents. Authorities also claim that during an immigration interview, Godwin presented another woman as his wife to mislead officials.
“The forged documents reportedly resulted in the issuance of multiple spousal permits,” a prosecutor stated, adding that the case raises serious concerns about Zimbabwe’s immigration oversight.
On April 15, 2025, Godwin was granted bail under stringent conditions, including a US$400 payment, restricted residence, limited movement, and mandatory reporting to the Bulawayo Central Police Station twice weekly. He is scheduled to appear in court again on April 30.