The US government has announced its intention to impose visa restrictions on specific individuals in Nigeria who have been found to undermine the democratic process during Nigeria’s 2023 elections cycle.
This disclosure was contained in a statement made by the Secretary of State, Anthony Blinken, on Monday and published on the official website of the US government.
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The US government stated that imposing visa restrictions is part of their ongoing commitment to support Nigeria’s aspirations towards strengthening democracy and the rule of law.
In his statement, Blinken emphasised the importance of democracy and the need to promote it both in Nigeria and around the world. He stated, “The United States is committed to supporting and advancing democracy in Nigeria and around the world,” adding that the visa restrictions are not aimed at the Nigerian people or government as a whole, but rather at specific individuals who have been found to undermine the democratic process.
Blinken added, “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.”
Despite the announcement, no names of the individuals involved have been released at this time.