The Peoples Democratic Party presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, has expressed his support for the United States’ visa ban on individuals accused of election rigging in Nigeria. Reports indicate that the US has imposed visa restrictions on certain Nigerians who are believed to have undermined democracy. This action is part of a broader effort to promote democratic values and combat corruption in Nigeria.
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken announced the visa restrictions in a statement on Wednesday. He noted that the individuals targeted by these sanctions, whose names were not disclosed, would be ineligible for US visas. Blinken also mentioned that some family members of those barred from entry may face similar restrictions. He emphasized the US commitment to supporting democracy, stating, “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 are deemed ineligible for US visas due to their involvement in actions that compromise democracy in Nigeria. Blinken further clarified that the visa restrictions are not aimed at the Nigerian populace or government. He warned that additional individuals who undermine the democratic process, particularly in relation to Nigeria’s 2023 elections, may also be subject to these visa restrictions.
In response to the US visa ban, Atiku Abubakar took to Twitter to encourage other established democracies to follow suit and impose similar restrictions on election riggers in Nigeria. He welcomed the US’s decision, stating, “I welcome the United States visa ban on anti-democratic elements whose actions seek to undermine the 2023 elections in Nigeria. I encourage other established democracies to follow suit to ensure that there’s no hiding place for the enemies of our democracy.”
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