Anambra election: U.S to place visa ban on perceived sponsors of violence

The United States has threatened to take severe action against anyone found guilty of undermining electoral process during the Saturday Anambra election.

This issuance of threat arose as a result of boycott campaigns by the separatist groups in the Southeast.

This warning was contained in a statement yesterday.

The United States also threatened that visa restriction may be placed on those found guilty of disrupting the election, noting that it would be monitoring the exercise.

However, the statement also added a glimpse of hope by the country, adding that it was looking forward to a peaceful and transparent governorship poll in the state.

The statement read, “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,” the statement said.

“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.”