U.S to place visa restriction on Nigerians involved in election violence

The United States Consulate in Nigeria has said it will place visa restrictions on Nigerians responsible for election violence that undermined the democratic process during Saturday’s gubernatorial and state assembly elections.

The Consulate disclosed this in a statement on Tuesday, stating that it is deeply troubled by the disturbing acts of violence, voter intimidation, and suppression that took place during the elections.

The Guardian reported that during the March 18 election, there was widespread violence, ballot box snatching, destruction of BVAS machines, and intimidation of voters by hoodlums across the country.

In Lagos State, about 17 people were arrested by the police for attacking the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) officials, vandalism and ballot box snatching, possession of a fake INEC ID, conduct likely to cause a breach of peace, assault occasioning harm, and illegal possession of firearms.

The Consulate, however, called on Nigerian authorities to hold individuals found to have ordered or carried out efforts to intimidate voters and suppress voting during the election process accountable.

“The United States likewise will consider all available actions, including additional visa restrictions, on individuals believed to be responsible for, or complicit in, undermining the democratic process in Nigeria,” it said.

“Following the February 25 national elections, the United States joined other international observers in urging the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to improve voting processes and technical elements that experienced flaws in that voting round.”

It added that the Saturday elections appeared to have had significant operational improvements, as polling stations generally opened on time and most results were visible on an electronic viewing platform in a timely manner.

It noted any opposition to the election results should go through established legal processes, which must not be interfered with.

“We further call for Nigeria’s people to work together as they participate in and continue to strengthen the country’s vibrant democracy.”