The United States Government on Monday said it is imposing  visa restriction on certain individuals for their actions in  the November 2019 Kogi and Bayelsa state elections.

The US government also said it is extending the restriction to individuals who have been operating with impunity in the run-up to the September and October 2020 Edo and Ondo State elections.

This was revealed in a statement signed by the spokesperson for the Department of State, Morgan Ortagus, on Monday. He wrote:

“In July 2019, we announced the imposition of visa restrictions on Nigerians who undermined the February and March 2019 elections. Today, the Secretary of State is imposing additional visa restrictions on individuals for their actions surrounding the November 2019 Kogi and Bayelsa State elections and in the run up to the September and October 2020 Edo and Ondo State elections.

“These individuals have so far operated with impunity at the expense of the Nigerian people and have undermined democratic principles,” the statement read in part.

Although the US Government did not reveal the identities of those who have been banned, it said the decision reflects its commitment to strengthening democracy in Nigeria.

“The Department of State emphasises that the actions announced today are specific to certain individuals and not directed at the Nigerian people. This decision reflects the Department of State’s commitment to working with the Nigerian government to realise its expressed commitment to end corruption and strengthen democracy, accountability, and respect for human rights.”