As The United States government is considering taking punitive measures, including visa ban, against perpetrators of violence in the November 17 governorship election in Bayelsa State.
The US consul general, Ms. Claire Pierangelo, who stated this at a media briefing held in Lagos yesterday, said if presented with verifiable evidence of election violence, “the US could impose a visa ban on those indicted.”
She said the US would mobilise observers to the state to ensure a free, fair and transparent process and urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to be objective and operate without pressure and intimidation.
The envoy also called on the security agencies not to interfere in the electoral process but provide security agencies to provide a safe and impartial environment for residents to exercise their franchise.
She said she had already spoken to the leading political actors in the state adding that the US was committed to ensuring a peaceful election that south-south state.
“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.
“We will be out there in the field observing the election. I am aware that many other foreign and international organisations will also be on the ground in Bayelsa.
“We will work closely with our colleagues and partners in the international community to promote a credible process that will benefit the people of Bayelsa,” she added.
Pierangelo said voter intimidation, vote buying and violence would not be tolerated and called for women, the youth and people living with disabilities to be encouraged to participate in the process.
“We call on all candidates and their supporters to reject election-related violence. The US and the international community will be watching the election closely in order to deter potential instigators of violence or those who seek to undermine the democratic process,” she added.
