The United States (U.S.) Department on Tuesday announced it has begun imposing visa restrictions on Nigerians who were involved in trying to or undermined democracy in Nigeria’s 2019 presidential and parliamentary elections, reported Reuters. President Muhammadu Buhari won a second term in February in an election marred by delays, logistical glitches, and violence.
The US State Department noted that it was committed to work to advance democracy and respect for human rights in the country but hinted that it would move against those whose acts of violence, intimidation, or corruption harmed Nigerians or undermined the democratic process in the country.
The announcement was made in a statement released by Morgan Ortagus, spokesperson of the US department of state.
Details regarding the name of the individuals or how many have been affected by the visa restrictions currently remain undisclosed. But, the department clearly pointed out that the visa restriction was for those who undermined the process.
“These individuals have operated with impunity at the expense of the Nigerian people and undermined democratic principles and human rights,” Ortagus said in the statement.
The department of state made it clear that the restrictions are specific to certain individuals and not directed at the Nigerian people or the newly elected government.
“The Department of State emphasizes that the actions announced today are specific to certain individuals and not directed at the Nigerian people or the newly elected government,” Ortagus added.
She said that the decision by the State Department reflects the US government’s commitment to working with the Nigerian government to realize its expressed commitment to end corruption and strengthen democracy, accountability, and respect for human rights.
