US imposes visa restrictions on Nigerians over election disruption

The United States has announced visa restrictions on individuals in Nigeria who it claims disrupted the recently concluded elections.

In a statement on Monday, US Secretary of State Antony 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. 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,” Blinken said.

“These actions are specific to certain individuals and are not directed at the Nigerian people or the government of Nigeria as a whole.”

Blinken said the affected persons had been involved in voter threats, results manipulation, physical violence, and other activities that undermined democracy.

“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,” Blinken said.

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 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.