Says we witnessed violence in Lagos, Kano first hand
Justice Okusaga l Wednesday, 22 March 2023
LAGOS, Nigeria – The United States embassy in Nigeria has called on authorities in Nigeria to hold accountable those who have carried out violence, voter suppression and intimidation in the March 18, 2023 governorship and national assembly election.
“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”, the embassy said.
The mission added that 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.
While commending 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, it called on government to hold those responsible for these undemocratic tenets accountable.
“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, adding that the United States likewise 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.
The United States renewed its call for any challenges to election results to go through established legal processes, which it said must not be interfered with.
“We further call for Nigeria’s people to work together as they participate in and continue to strengthen the country’s vibrant democracy”, the US embassy said.
