US: Nigeria’s gubernatorial election was marred by violent voter intimidation

The United States government stated on Tuesday that the March 18 gubernatorial and state assembly elections in Nigeria were marred by voter intimidation and suppression.

The U.S. diplomatic mission in Nigeria disclosed this in a statement released on Tuesday in Abuja, stating that its members observed the elections in Lagos and other locations and witnessed some of these incidents firsthand.

“The United States is deeply troubled by the disturbing acts of voter intimidation and suppression that occurred in Lagos, Kano, and other states during those elections.

“The use of racially charged rhetoric before, during, and after the gubernatorial election in Lagos was especially troubling,” the report stated.

Therefore, the United States urged the Nigerian government to hold accountable and prosecute any individuals found to have ordered or carried out efforts to intimidate voters and suppress voting during the election process.

“The United States will similarly consider all available actions, including additional visa restrictions, against those believed responsible for or complicit in undermining the democratic process in Nigeria,” the statement continued.

In addition, it reiterated its demand that any challenges to election results must follow established legal procedures that cannot be interfered with.

(TNT)