All nations are very interested in Nigeria’s general elections, with their interest higher on knowing who becomes Nigeria’s next president.
The presidential election is fixed for February 25, 2023, while state governors will be elected on March 11, 2023.
The UK government has threatened to refuse visas to lawmakers connected to the violence because it is concerned about the probability of post-election violence in Nigeria.
Catriona Laing, the British High Commissioner to Nigeria, told reporters on Thursday in Abuja that the UK government was concerned about potential post-election violence despite assurances from the Nigeria Police Force.
The diplomatic officer said: “If it is brought to our attention, both indirectly and directly, that they are people inciting violence, making hate speeches, or conducting violent acts, we will use our visa policies to restrict such an individual’s ability to enter the UK.”
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“Another thing we are worried about is post-election violence.
“As we saw in the past—I cannot remember the year—if any one of the party’s supporters feels this election is stolen, my candidate should have won, there is a risk of violence.”
Having spoken with the Independent National Electoral Commission, Ms. Laing expressed the UK government’s confidence in the election (INEC).
Playing The Impartial Role
Another concern that the UK government has is voter suppression and it is appealing to political parties and candidates to oppose any form of voter suppression.
She said: “The security forces, from my discussions with the IGP and others, are also committed to playing the impartial role they need to play.
“We will be watching this closely, and it is very important that these elections take place on time.
“It is very important for Nigeria’s democracy that the people respect the result because that is the hallmark of democracy: somebody wins, somebody loses.
“And if you feel for any reason the election in your area was not credible or transparent, there is a process, and that is the court.
“What will be tragic for Nigeria on this crucial democratic journey where you have been making great strides is if there is a repeat of the 2011 widespread post-election violence”.
