US Issues Visa Bans Against Nigerians Who Undermined Democracy

The US State Department has announced a visa ban for Nigerians who tried to undermine democracy during the 2019 elections.

In a statement that sets out the reasons for the ban but does not list the affected individuals the Department states: “The United States is a steadfast supporter of Nigerian democracy.  We commend all those Nigerians who participated peacefully in the February and March 2019 elections and have worked to strengthen Nigerian democratic institutions and processes.  As Nigeria marks the twentieth anniversary of a return to democratic rule this year, we remain committed to working together to continue to advance democracy and respect for human rights and achieve greater peace and prosperity for both our nations.  We condemn those whose acts of violence, intimidation, or corruption harmed Nigerians or undermined the democratic process.”

The ban refers to a previous commitment made by the US government to consider the consequences for individuals who sought to undermine the process.

While the statement made it clear that the ban was not directed at the newly elected government, opposition presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar has pointed to the move as further evidence that the elections were rigged.

“After many months of living in denial, the Buhari regime is now faced with the truth in the form of a US visa ban on politicians who undermined Nigeria's democracy," Atiku has been quoted as stating.