The United States (U.S.) on Wednesday said it expects the November 6 gubernatorial election in Anambra State to be “peaceful and transparent, with results that accurately reflect the will of the State’s residents.”
Stating that it is paying close attention to the actions of individuals who “interfere with the democratic process or instigate violence against civilian populations before, during, or after the elections,” the U.S. threatens stern measures including visa restrictions for anyone or family member who works against a peaceful, transparent election.
The U.S. therefore called on “citizens, electoral officials, party members, and security force personnel to do their part in ensuring a credible and secure electoral process.”
The full statement reads: “The United States looks forward to a gubernatorial election in Anambra State on November 6 that is peaceful and transparent, with results that accurately reflect the will of the state’s residents.
“We will be paying close attention to actions of individuals who interfere with the democratic process or instigate violence against civilian populations before, during, or after the elections.
“We will not hesitate to consider consequences – including visa restrictions – for those found to be responsible for election-related violence or undermining the democratic process.
“Under U.S. immigration law, certain violations also may lead to restrictions on family members. We call on citizens, electoral officials, party members, and security force personnel to do their part in ensuring a credible and secure electoral process.”