United States, on Tuesday, condemned voter intimidation and increased violence that marred last Saturday’s Governorship and State Houses of Assembly elections.
The US Government made its position known in a statement made available to journalists.
The rescheduled Governorship and Houses of Assembly elections were held last Saturday in 28 states and 36 states, respectively, amid increased violence and voter intimidation.
There was widespread violence in many states of the federation.
The American Government said though the March 18 elections appeared to have had significant operational improvements, as polling stations generally opened on time and most results were visible on an electronic viewing platform in a timely manner, there were increased violence in Lagos, Kano and other states across the country.
It, however, commended stakeholders who spoke against the violence and intimidation of voters, adding that it was a sign of respect to democratic process.
The statement partly read, “Nigeria carried out the second round of its electoral process with gubernatorial and state assembly elections on March 18.
“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. 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.
“We commend 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.”
US Government also threatened to sanction perpetrators, urging Nigerian authorities to probe reports on election violence.
The statement added, “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 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 renews its call for any challenges to election results to go through established legal processes, which 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.”