As the governorship election in Anambra State takes place on Saturday, the US has stated that it will not hesitate to impose sanctions, including visa restrictions, on individuals proven to be responsible for election-related violence or undermining the state’s democratic process.
In a statement issued in Abuja, the US Diplomatic Mission to Nigeria stated the government of looked forward to a peaceful and transparent gubernatorial election in Anambra, with results that accurately reflect the choice of the state’s inhabitants.
“We will be paying close attention to actions of individuals who interfere with the democratic process or instigate violence against civilian populations before, during, or after the elections. We will not hesitate to consider consequences – including visa restrictions – for those found to be responsible for election-related violence or undermining the democratic process,” the United States said.
According to the United States Diplomatic Mission in Nigeria, certain infractions of US immigration law may result in restrictions on family members as well.
“We call on citizens, electoral officials, party members, and security force personnel to do their part in ensuring a credible and secure electoral process”, the United States also said.
