The United States Secretary of States, Antony Blinkin, has announced visa restrictions on specific individuals in Nigeria for undermining the democratic process in a recent Nigerian election.
In a statement released by the US Consulate in Nigeria, late Wednesday, Blinkin said “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.”
He explained that “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.
The statement which did not name the affected individuals, however noted that “Certain family members of such persons may also be subject to these restrictions.
It further stated that “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.
Blinkin clarified that the visa restrictions announced today are specific to certain individuals and are not directed at the Nigerian people or the Government of Nigeria.”
The US secretary of state further assured that his country is committed to supporting and advancing democracy in Nigeria and around the world.