Election 2019: Family Members may also be affected by Visa restriction on culpable Nigerian politicians – US

The visa restrictions on Nigerian politicians and others found blameworthy of undermining the 2019 election, may also affect their family members as confirmed by the US Department of State.

In response to an enquiry by Punch, the US Department of State said the visa restrictions may also affect family members of such individuals “when warranted.”

“Any individual named in this policy who already has a visa to travel to the US will be informed that it has been revoked.

“Any individual named in this policy who applies for a visa to travel to the United States will be denied one. These restrictions may, when warranted, also affect the family members of those individuals subject to visa restrictions under this policy,” the statement read in part.

It added “Under US law, individual visa records are confidential and we cannot provide details as to who is or will be affected.

“The policy covers those believed to be responsible for or complicit in, undermining democracy, including those responsible for or complicity in the rigging of the electoral process; corruption; vote-buying; intimidation of voters, the media or election observers through threats or acts of physical violence; suppression of peaceful protestors; and threats against judicial independence.

“With these restrictions, we are sending a clear message that those who undermine democracy or violate or abuse human rights – and their families – are not welcome in the United States.”

The visa restriction came off after an agreement between the US and Nigerian government to end corruption, strengthen democracy, accountability and respect for human rights.