United States Secretary of State, Antony J. Blinken, today, announced steps to impose visa restrictions on specific individuals in Nigeria for undermining the democratic process during the nation’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, Blinken noted in a statement made available to Alltimepost.com on Monday.
Targeted individuals are those that 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.”
He said: “The United States is committed to supporting and advancing democracy in Nigeria and around the world.
“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.
“The decision to take steps to impose visa restrictions reflects the continued commitment of the United States to support Nigerian aspirations to strengthen democracy and the rule of law.”
