US to impose visa ban on Nigerians undermining democracy

According to the US government, procedures have been taken to put visa restrictions on particular Nigerian citizens for subverting the democratic process during the country’s 2023 election cycle.

This information was provided in a statement released on Monday by Secretary of State Anthony Blinken and posted on the US official website.

“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 election cycle.”

Blinken stated that “the United States is committed to supporting and advancing democracy in Nigeria and around the world,” but he also said that the visa restrictions “are specific to certain individuals and are not directed at the Nigerian people or the government of Nigeria as a whole.”

“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,” Blinken continued.

However, as of the time this article was filed, no one’s name has been made public.

These people “have engaged in activities that undermine Nigeria’s democratic process, including the physical and verbal intimidation of voters, the tampering with election results, and other activities.”

The US administration revealed that its decision to move through with enacting visa restrictions is a reflection of its ongoing commitment to supporting Nigeria’s efforts to improve democracy and the rule of law.