US considers visa ban for violent Bayelsa politicians – TheNigerialawyer

The United States Consul General, Claire Pierangelo, has said
the US government could impose a visa ban, among other punitive
measures, on perpetrators of violence in the coming Bayelsa State
governorship election.

Pierangelo said despite the difficult terrain, the US would
mobilise observers to the state to ensure a free, fair and
transparent process.

She urged the Independent National Electoral Commission to be
objective and operate without pressure and intimidation, adding
that security agencies must also avoid interfering with the
process.

The envoy, who spoke during a briefing on Wednesday at the US
Consulate General on the Victoria Island, Lagos State, said she had
already spoken to the leading political actors in the state, adding
that the US was committed to ensuring a peaceful election in
Bayelsa on Saturday.

She stated, “I recently returned from Bayelsa as part of my
first trip to the Niger Delta region since assuming my role as the
consul-general.

“In all of my public and private engagements with key
stakeholders, I expressed the US expectations regarding an
electoral outcome that reflects the will of the people of
Bayelsa.

“We will be out there in the field observing the election. I am
aware that many other foreign and international organisations will
also be on the ground in Bayelsa.

“We will work closely with our colleagues and partners in the
international community to promote a credible process that will
benefit the people of Bayelsa,” she added.

While urging security agencies to provide a safe and impartial
environment for residents to exercise their franchise, Pierangelo
insisted that voter intimidation, vote buying and violence would
not be tolerated.

She asked that women, the youth and people living with
disabilities should be encouraged to participate.

“We call on all candidates and their supporters to reject
election-related violence. The US and the international community
will be watching the election closely in order to deter potential
instigators of violence or those who seek to undermine the
democratic process,” she added.

The consul general said if presented with verifiable evidence of
election violence, “the US could impose a visa ban on those
indicted.”