The United States of America has announced the imposition of visa restrictions on people undermining democracy in Nigeria.
The U.S. disclosed this in a statement by Secretary Antony J. Blinken as published on the website of its embassy in Nigeria on Wednesday.
“We are committed to supporting and advancing democracy in Nigeria and around the world.
“Today, I am announcing visa restrictions on specific individuals in Nigeria for undermining the democratic process in a recent Nigerian election.
“Under Section 212(a)(3)C) of the Immigration and Nationality Act, these individuals will be found ineligible for visas to the United States under a policy to restrict visas of those believed to be responsible for, or complicit in, undermining democracy in Nigeria.
“Certain family members of such persons may also be subject to these restrictions. 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 under this policy,” the statement quoted him as saying in part.
According to him, the visa restrictions announced are specific to certain individuals and are not directed at the Nigerian people or the Government of Nigeria.
Though the names of those affected were not disclosed, Blinken added that the decision to impose visa restrictions reflects the commitment of the United States to support Nigerian aspirations to combat corruption and strengthen democracy and the rule of law.
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