A Nigerian man who faced an extraordinary bureaucratic hurdle after winning €500,000 (approximately £425,000) on an Italian lottery scratchcard has finally been granted a residency permit. Imagbe Ehizomwengie, 36, had been living in Italy without documentation for over a decade, making him unable to claim his substantial prize or even open a bank account to receive the funds.
Mr Ehizomwengie, who arrived in Italy in 2016 after a perilous journey across the Mediterranean, had been scraping a living as a street seller in Turin, occasionally buying scratchcards with the hope of changing his fortunes. He purchased the winning €5 Gratta e Vinci ticket last October. Despite his initial joy, the reality of his undocumented status quickly became apparent, creating a complex situation where he couldn't access his winnings, which in turn made it difficult to prove the financial independence required for a residency application.
His lawyer, Andrea Palazzeschi, pursued the case through the courts in Ancona. While navigating the legal system, Mr Ehizomwengie managed to secure some of his post-tax winnings, which were then used to invest in 'Mama Africa', a shop selling African food produce in Falconara. This business venture, along with his demonstrated competence in Italian and commitment to working, played a crucial role in his successful application.
This week, an Italian court ordered the issuance of his residency permit, bringing an end to his prolonged immigration struggle. Mr Ehizomwengie expressed immense relief and joy, stating that the permit means more to him than the lottery win itself. He emphasised his desire to work and contribute to Italian society, highlighting a commitment to a normal life rather than focusing solely on his newfound wealth.
The case sheds light on the challenges faced by undocumented migrants, even in circumstances of unexpected fortune. Mr Palazzeschi underlined that the residency permit was granted because Mr Ehizomwengie proved himself to be a suitable candidate, rather than simply because he had won a significant sum of money. The story has garnered considerable attention in Falconara, where Mr Ehizomwengie plans to host a celebratory party, marking this pivotal moment in his life.