Visa ban is impose on the some individuals which perform some actions during elections and run-up in some Nigerian states.
The states includes : kogi and bayelsa 2019 elections and Edo and Ondo run-up. United state Government impose this ban on the individuals.
the Secretary of State, Mike Pompeo, says the visa restriction on these individuals was done due to their conducts.
This is according to a statement signed by the spokesperson for the Department of State, Morgan Ortagus, on Monday.
“In July 2019, we announced the imposition of visa restrictions on Nigerians who undermined the February and March 2019 elections. Today, the Secretary of State is imposing additional visa restrictions on individuals for their actions surrounding the November 2019 Kogi and Bayelsa State elections and in the run up to the September and October 2020 Edo and Ondo State elections.
“These individuals have so far operated with impunity at the expense of the Nigerian people and have undermined democratic principles,” the statement read in part.
Although the US government has not released the names of those barred, it said the decision represents its commitment to strengthening Nigerian democracy.
“The Department of State emphasises that the actions announced today are specific to certain individuals and not directed at the Nigerian people. This decision reflects the Department of State’s commitment to working with the Nigerian government to realise its expressed commitment to end corruption and strengthen democracy, accountability, and respect for human rights,” the statement read.
The US said it remained a firm supporter of Nigerian democracy and commended all those Nigerians who participated in elections during 2019 and have worked to improve democratic institutions and processes.
It condemned the violent acts, thuggery, or corruption that harmed Nigerians and hindered the democratic system.
“As the Edo and Ondo State off-cycle elections near, we urge all stakeholders, including the Independent National Electoral Commission, the political parties, and the security services, to uphold the tenets of democracy and facilitate genuinely free and fair elections, conducted in an appropriately transparent and non-violent manner,” the US stated.
source :punch
