November 03, (THEWILL) – The United States has threatened to impose sanctions, including visa restrictions, on anyone and their families found 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.
The South-East separatist group, the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), had threatened to lock the region down from Friday, November 5 if its leader, Nnamdi Kanu, is not released from detention on or before November 4.
Also, attacks by gunmen and other hoodlums have also increased across Anambra, including violent attacks on campaign rallies, causing panic and possible voter apathy in the guber poll.
Despite this, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), has insisted that the poll will hold on Saturday as planned.
The US Embassy in a statement in Abuja on Wednesday, 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.”
