The governments of the United States of America and the United Kingdom have released separate statements on the upcoming general elections in Nigeria.
Both governments are not in support of any party or candidate, but the country’s democratic process, the statements said, adding that they will not hesitate to place visa restrictions and other sanctions on those found responsible for rigging and/or instigating violence during the polls.
See both statements below:
U.S. Statement
The conduct of the upcoming elections in Nigeria is important not only for Nigeria, but for the African continent.
The United States government does not support any specific candidate or party in Nigeria’s upcoming elections. The United States supports the Nigerian democratic process itself. We support a genuinely free, fair, transparent, and peaceful electoral process.
We, and other democratic nations, will be paying close attention to actions of individuals who interfere in the democratic process or instigate violence against the civilian population 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 may also lead to restrictions on family members.
We welcome the signing of peace pledges by Nigerian candidates and their commitment to a peaceful electoral process.
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