The United States Tuesday has imposed visa restrictions on Nigerian politicians responsible for undermining the democratic process during the 2019 elections.
” In a January 24 statement, the U.S. government said that we would consider consequences – including visa restrictions – for individuals responsible for undermining the Nigerian democratic process or for organizing election-related violence, the US State Department said.
“To that end, the Secretary of State is imposing visa restrictions on Nigerians believed to be responsible for, or complicit in, undermining democracy in Nigeria. These individuals have operated with impunity at the expense of the Nigerian people and undermined democratic principles and human rights, said Morgan Ortagus, Spokesperson for the Department of State.
Per Second News learnt that a former governor of a South-South state was recently labeled as inadmissible to the United States. He was denied entry at the Washington, Dulles airport.
The Department of State in a statement in Washington emphasizes that the actions announced today are specific to certain individuals and not directed at the Nigerian people or the newly elected government. This decision reflects the Department of State’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.
” As Nigeria marks the twentieth anniversary of a return to democratic rule this year, we remain committed to working together to continue to advance democracy and respect for human rights and achieve greater peace and prosperity for both our nations.”
“We condemn those whose acts of violence, intimidation, or corruption harmed Nigerians or undermined the democratic process, the State department said.
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