US Slams Visa Ban on Election Riggers in Nigeria

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Obiajulu Joel Nwolu

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The United States government says it has imposed visa ban on some persons for their actions during the conduct of the Kogi and Bayelsa state gubernatorial elections and in the run-up to the Edo and Ondo state polls.

This was disclosed on Monday in a statement signed by Morgan Ortagus, spokesperson for the Department of State.

The statement read in part, “In July 2019, we announced the imposition of visa restrictions on Nigerians who undermined the February and March 2019 elections. Today, the Secretary of State is imposing additional visa restrictions on individuals for their actions surrounding the November 2019 Kogi and Bayelsa State elections and in the run up to the September and October 2020 Edo and Ondo State elections.

“These individuals have so far operated with impunity at the expense of the Nigerian people and have undermined democratic principles.

“The Department of State emphasises that the actions announced today are specific to certain individuals and not directed at the Nigerian people. This decision reflects the Department of State’s commitment to working with the Nigerian government to realise its expressed commitment to end corruption and strengthen democracy, accountability, and respect for human rights,”

It condemned the acts of violence, intimidation, or corruption that harmed Nigerians and undermined the democratic process.

However, the US Government did not reveal the identities of those who have been restricted but it said the decision reflects its commitment to strengthening democracy in Nigeria.