The United States (US) has imposed consequences, including visa restrictions, on anyone who interferes with the democratic process or incites violence against civilian populations before, during, or after the Anambra State governor election on Saturday.
This warning was issued by the Public Affairs Section of the United States Diplomatic Mission in Nigeria on Wednesday.
Certain transgressions, according to the brief statement, may also result in restrictions on relatives of electoral offenders and families of individuals who may incite violence at the elections.
“We will be paying close attention to actions of individuals who interfere with the democratic process or instigate violence against civilian populations before, during, or after the elections.
“We will not hesitate to consider consequences – including visa restrictions – for those found to be responsible for election-related violence or undermining the democratic process.
“Under U.S. immigration law, certain violations also may lead to restrictions on family members,” the statement partly read.
The US government, on the other hand, stated that it expects a free and fair election that would be peaceful, with results that appropriately reflect the choice of the people of Anambra.
The American administration urged citizens, election officials, party members, and security force personnel to all play a role in ensuring a credible and secure electoral process.
