The United States has imposed visa restrictions on some Nigerians who undermined the democratic process in the country during the 2019 elections.
Spokesman for the US Department of State, Morgan Ortagus, disclosed this in a statement on Tuesday.
Mr Ortagus explained that the visa restrictions would affect Nigerians indicted for electoral violence, rigging and other anti-democratic activities before, during and after the 2019 elections.
He said the US had earlier warned in its statement on January 24 about consequences for such actions which would include visa restrictions.
“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,” the statement said.
“These individuals have operated with impunity at the expense of the Nigerian people and undermined democratic principles and human rights.
“The Department of State emphasises 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 realise its expressed commitment to end corruption and strengthen democracy, accountability, and respect for human rights.”
The US commended all who participated peacefully in the elections and have worked to strengthen democratic institutions and processes in the country.
