The United States government has said its decision to impose visa restrictions on individuals involved in undermining the democratic process in Nigeria is to help to deepen democracy in the country.

Antony  Blinken, US Secretary of State, made this known on Wednesday in a statement published on the US Department of State website.

According to him, the US government was committed to supporting and advancing democracy in Nigeria and worldwide.

 “Today (Wednesday), 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 will be found ineligible for visas to the United States under a policy to restrict visas of those believed to be responsible for, or complicit in, undermining democracy in Nigeria. 

“Certain family members of such persons may also be subject to these restrictions.  Additional persons who undermine the democratic process in Nigeria—including in the lead-up to, during, and following Nigeria’s 2023 elections—may be found ineligible for U.S. visas under this policy.

“The visa restrictions announced today are specific to certain individuals and are not directed at the Nigerian people or the Government of Nigeria.”

Blinken added that the decision to impose visa restrictions reflected the commitment of the United States to support Nigerian aspirations to combat corruption and strengthen democracy and the rule of law.