The United States has vowed sanctions, including visa
restrictions on anyone and their families instigating violence in the November
6 governorship poll in Anambra State.
The US said it will be paying close attention to the
electoral process in the state and looks forward to a peaceful and transparent
poll that will accurately reflect the will of the people.
A pro-secession group, the Indigenous People of Biafra had
threatened to disrupt the election.
Attacks by gunmen and other hoodlums had also increased
across the state, including violent attacks on campaign rallies, as a way of
sparking panic and discouraging the residents from going out to vote on
election day.
Despite this, the Independent National Electoral Commission
has insisted that the poll will hold on Saturday as planned.
But 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.
The statement read, “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 US immigration law, certain violations also may lead
to restrictions on family members.”
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My humble opinion: US should call for total cancelation of the election to save lives and properties. The tension is extremely high and it shouldn't be a do or die affair....as in the election must be held...is this election more important than live? Nope.... when two elephant fights
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