US Considers Visa Ban For Violent Bayelsa Politicians
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.
