U.S. imposes visa ban on Nigerians disrupting polls

The United States Government says it has taken steps to impose visa restrictions on some Nigerians for undermining Nigeria’s democratic process during the 2023 general election.

The U.S. government said the affected individuals were involved in the intimidation of voters, manipulation of election results, and other activity that undermines Nigeria’s democratic process.

It made this known via a statement issued on Monday, May 15, by the U.S. Secretary of State, Anthony Blinken.

Blinken noted that the visa restrictions were specific to certain individuals and are not directed at the Nigerian people or the government as a whole.

He stated: “The United States is committed to supporting and advancing democracy in Nigeria and around the world.

“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.”

He said the visa ban was the United States’ commitment to supporting Nigeria’s aspirations to strengthen democracy and the rule of law, adding: “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.”

The Star