The United States has condemned the violence and voter intimidation that marred the Governorship and State Houses of Assembly elections held on March 18, 2023.
In a statement released to The Punch on Tuesday, the US expressed concern that the violence and intimidation were more pronounced compared to the Presidential and National Assembly polls held on February 25, despite the massive deployment of security agencies in strategic locations.
The elections were rescheduled and took place in 28 states and 36 states for the Governorship and Houses of Assembly elections, respectively.
The US acknowledged that there were some improvements in the March 18 elections, with polling stations opening on time and most results being visible on an electronic viewing platform in a timely manner. However, there were still reports of increased violence in Lagos, Kano, and other states.
Despite this, the US commended stakeholders who spoke against the violence and intimidation towards voters, as it showed respect for the democratic process adding that they believe that free and fair elections are the bedrock of democracy and that any attempt to undermine the democratic process must be condemned.
The statement went on to call on Nigerian authorities to thoroughly investigate any instances of violence and intimidation and bring those responsible to justice. The US also urged all political parties and candidates to respect the democratic process and work towards a peaceful and transparent election.
The statement read in part; Nigeria carried out the second round of its electoral process with gubernatorial and state assembly elections on March 18.
“The United States is deeply troubled by the disturbing acts of violent voter intimidation and suppression that took place during those polls in Lagos, Kano, and other states. Members of the U.S. diplomatic mission observed the elections in Lagos and elsewhere and witnessed some of these incidents first-hand.
“The use of ethnically charged rhetoric before, during, and after the gubernatorial election in Lagos was particularly concerning.
“We commend all Nigerian political actors, religious and community leaders, youth, and citizens who have chosen to reject and speak out against such violence and inflammatory language, affirming Nigerians’ commitment to and respect for the democratic process.”
The US also demanded that Nigerian authorities look into accusations of electoral violence while threatening to punish those responsible.
It said, “We call on Nigerian authorities to hold accountable and bring to justice any individuals found to have ordered or carried out efforts to intimidate voters and suppress voting during the election process.
“The United States likewise will consider all available actions, including additional visa restrictions, on individuals believed to be responsible for, or complicit in, undermining the democratic process in Nigeria.
“The United States renews its call for any challenges to election results to go through established legal processes, which must not be interfered with. We further call for Nigeria’s people to work together as they participate in and continue to strengthen the country’s vibrant democracy.”
