The United States has announced that it has taken steps to impose visa restrictions on individuals in Nigeria who disrupted the recently concluded elections.
Antony Blinken, US secretary of state, announced the development in a statement on Monday.
Blinken clarified that the sanctions were specific to certain individuals and not the Nigerian people or the government as a whole.
“The United States is committed to supporting and advancing democracy in Nigeria and around the world,” 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.
“These actions are specific to certain individuals and are not directed at the Nigerian people or the government of Nigeria as a whole.”
In accordance with Section 212(a)(3)C) of the Immigration and Nationality Act, Blinken clarified that people who are suspected of undermining democracy may face limitations on their ability to obtain visas to enter the United States.
However, the US Government has not provided a list of specific individuals or groups who are believed to have interfered with Nigeria’s 2023 elections
“These individuals have been involved in the intimidation of voters through threats and physical violence, the manipulation of vote results, and other activity that undermines Nigeria’s democratic process,” Blinken added.
According to the statement, the US government’s decision reflects the continued commitment of the country to support Nigeria’s aspiration to strengthen democracy and the rule of law.
