International News
US Speaks on 2023 Election Violence in Lagos, Kano, other State…to issue visa ban
The United States (US) has now released statement regarding 2023 election violence in Lagos, Kano and other state.
The violence which trailed the recently-concluded 2023 elections has elicited a reaction from the US Mission in Nigeria.
Saturday’s 2023 elections for governorship posts were conducted in 28 of Nigeria’s 36 states which were not affected by electoral disputes in previous votes.
Also Read: LAGOS: Sanwo-Olu reveals next step after victory at polls
Despite the police imposing several security measures including restrictions on vehicle movements, numerous incidents were reported on Saturday in Lagos where some polling stations were attacked by gangs who also snatched ballot papers during the 2023 elections.
The highly contested elections have led to ethnic tension among supporters of the main candidates, with some sharing online how they were prevented from voting because of their identity or party affiliation.
Similar attacks and alleged discrimination were also reported in Sokoto state in the north-west, Kano in the north, and Port Harcourt in the Niger Delta.
The situation is calmer on Sunday in areas where the election was postponed to a second day.
US Mission Statement
In the aftermath, the US Mission frowned on the widespread incidents of voter’s intimidation and ethnic rhetorics which created tension amongst the electorate.
The statement posted on its website on Tuesday, read, “Nigeria carried out the second round of its electoral process with gubernatorial and state assembly elections on March 18. The United States is deeply troubled by the disturbing acts of violent voter intimidation and suppression that took place during those polls in Lagos, Kano, and other states.
“Members of the U.S. diplomatic mission observed the elections in Lagos and elsewhere and witnessed some of these incidents first-hand. The use of ethnically charged rhetoric before, during, and after the gubernatorial election in Lagos was particularly concerning.
“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.”
It further urged the authorities to ensure the prosecution of individuals and parties culpable in voter’s intimidation during the election.
“We call 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 United States likewise will consider all available actions, including additional visa restrictions, on individuals believed to be responsible for, or complicit in, undermining the democratic process in Nigeria.
“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.”
