On Wednesday, the United States of America announced that certain Nigerians would be subject to visa restrictions.
In a recent election, the affected individuals, according to the American government, undermined the democratic process.
The governorship elections in Anambra, Ekiti, and Osun States were the most recent election in the nation.
In a statement, Anthony Blinken, Secretary of State, reaffirmed the United States’ commitment to supporting and advancing democracy worldwide, including in Nigeria.
“Today, I am announcing visa restrictions on certain individuals in Nigeria for undermining the democratic process in a recent Nigerian election,” the president stated.
The individuals will be found ineligible for American visas under Section 212(a)(3)C) of the Immigration and Nationality Act.
Blinken mentioned that these restrictions may also apply to certain members of the person’s family.
He stated, “Under this policy, additional persons who undermine the democratic process in Nigeria—including in the lead-up to, during, and following Nigeria’s 2023 elections—may be found ineligible for U.S. visas.”
Blinken clarified that the most recent restrictions on visas only affect a select group of people and do not affect the general public or the government.
The official concluded, “The commitment of the United States to support Nigerian aspirations to combat corruption and strengthen democracy and the rule of law reflects the decision to impose visa restrictions.”