By Emmanuel Nduka
The United States has warned that it will not hesitate to take actions against any individual or group found guilty of sponsoring violence in the Anambra Governorship election slated for November 6.
Despite worsening insecurity in the South East region, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) had stated that it would go ahead to conduct the polls.
The US in a statement issued on Wednesday, said visa restrictions may be placed on those found guilty of disrupting the electoral process.
The statement also adds that the US will be monitoring the exercise, as the country is looking forward to a peaceful and transparent governorship poll in the state.
“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.
“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,” part of the statement read.
