The United States government revealed on Monday that it had taken action to place visa restrictions on specific Nigerians for undermining the democratic process during the general elections in Nigeria in 2023.
This information was provided in a statement by Secretary of State Anthony Blinken that was published on the US official website.
The US, however, has not named any specific person who had been subject to the restriction as of the time this report was filed.
The statement reads: “Today, I am announcing that we have taken steps to impose visa restrictions on specific individuals in Nigeria for undermining the democratic process during Nigeria’s 2023 elections cycle.
“The United States is committed to supporting and advancing democracy in Nigeria and around the world,” Blinken added that the visa restrictions “are specific to certain individuals and are not directed at the Nigerian people or the government of Nigeria as a whole.
“Under Section 212(a)(3)C) of the Immigration and Nationality Act, these individuals will be subject to restrictions on visas to the United States under a policy covering those believed to be responsible for, or complicit in, undermining democracy.
“These individuals have been involved in intimidation of voters through threats and physical violence, the manipulation of vote results, and other activity that undermines Nigeria’s democratic process.”
The United States government further revealed that its decision to take action to impose visa restrictions is a reflection of its ongoing commitment to supporting Nigeria’s efforts to build democracy and the rule of law.
Ada Peter
