Anambra election: US promises sanctions, visa restrictions on violence instigators and families

The United States has vowed sanctions, including visa restrictions on any individual their families instigating violence in the November 6 governorship election in Anambra State.

The US has said it will monitor the electoral process in the state and looks forward to a peaceful and transparent poll that will accurately reflect the will of the people.

Despite the Indigenous People of Biafra’s threats to disrupt the election from holding and the increase in gunmen and hoodlums attack which includes violent attacks on campaign rallies as a way of sparking panic and discouraging the residents from going out to vote on election day, the Independent National Electoral Commission has insisted that the poll will hold on Saturday as planned.

Read also; Abaribe: Nnamdi Kanu, IPOB never said Anambra election won’t hold

However, the US Embassy in a statement in Abuja on Wednesday, titled, ‘Statement on the upcoming Anambra elections,’ called on citizens, electoral officials, party members, and security force personnel to do their part in ensuring a credible and secure electoral process.

“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 US immigration law, certain violations also may lead to restrictions on family members.”