US Issues Strong Warning Ahead Anambra Governorship Elections

Trixx NG reports the United States (US) has vowed sanctions, including visa restrictions on anyone and their families instigating violence ahead of Anambra State Governorship election on Saturday.

The US Embassy in a statement 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 reads, “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.”

In a similar vein, the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Usman Alkali said that security arrangements for the conduct of the Saturday governorship election in Anambra covered land, sea and air.

Alkali spoke on Wednesday during the stakeholders meeting organised by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) at the Prof. Dora Akunyili Women Development Centre, Awka, Anambra State.

“We have enough helicopters, speed boats and vehicles for security operatives to man the entire state.”