The United States condemned the voter intimidation and heightened violence that marred the governorship and state house of assembly elections on Saturday, according to a statement released to our correspondent on Tuesday. The rescheduled elections were held in 28 states for governorships and 36 states for assemblies, and they experienced more violence and intimidation than the presidential and National Assembly polls on February 25.
Despite a massive deployment of security agencies to strategic locations, widespread violence occurred in many parts of the federation. The U.S. noted that the March 18 elections showed significant operational improvements: polling stations generally opened on time and most results were posted promptly on an electronic viewing platform. Nevertheless, incidents of violence were reported in Lagos, Kano, and other states. The statement praised stakeholders who spoke out against the violence and intimidation of voters, calling their actions a sign of respect for the democratic process.
The statement read in part: “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.”
The United States also warned that it would sanction perpetrators and called on Nigerian authorities to investigate reports of election violence. “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 statement said. “The United States 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.”
Finally, the United States reiterated its call for any challenges to election results to proceed through established legal processes without interference, and urged the Nigerian people to work together to strengthen the country’s vibrant democracy.
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