•Mulls visa restriction, others for offenders
Ugo Aliogo
The United States has expressed displeasure over the disturbing acts of violent voters’ intimidation and suppression that took place during last Saturday’s polls in Lagos, Kano and other states.
In a statement made available to THISDAY, it noted that members of the United States diplomatic mission observed the elections in Lagos and elsewhere and witnessed some of the incidents of the electoral violence first-hand.
The statement also noted that the use of ethnically charged rhetoric before, during, and after the gubernatorial election in Lagos was particularly concerning.
The statement added: “We commend all Nigerian political actors, religious and community leaders, youth, and citizens who have chosen to reject and speak out against such violence and inflammatory language, affirming Nigerians’ commitment to and respect for the democratic process.”
The United States called on Nigerian authorities to hold accountable and bring to justice any individuals found to have ordered or carried out efforts to intimidate voters and suppress voting during the election process.
The statement noted that the United States likewise would consider all available actions, including additional visa restrictions, on individuals believed to be responsible for, or complicit in, undermining the democratic process in Nigeria.
The statement added: “Following the February 25, national elections, the United States joined other international observers in urging the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to improve voting processes and technical elements that experienced flaws in that voting round.
“The March 18 elections appear to have had significant operational improvements, as polling stations generally opened on time and most results were visible on an electronic viewing platform in a timely manner.
“The United States renews its call for any challenges to election results to go through established legal processes, which must not be interfered with. We further call for Nigeria’s people to work together as they participate in and continue to strengthen the country’s vibrant democracy.”
