The UK government [/b]has announced that it is actively compiling relevant data on individuals who instigated or participated in election-related violence during the recently concluded 2023 elections in Nigeria. As per a statement released by Andrew Mitchell MP, the UK Minister of State for Development and Africa, the government has expressed its intention to take appropriate measures against these individuals, such as imposing sanctions that may include prohibiting people from acquiring UK visas [/b]or imposing human rights sanctions.
The British High Commission, in a statement released on March 22, 2023, declared that it has witnessed and received credible reports from other observer missions and civil society organisations of vote buying, voter intimidation, destruction and hijacking of election materials, and general disruption of the process in numerous states, including Lagos, Enugu, and Rivers. Additionally, the government has observed incidents of harassment of journalists during the electoral process. The UK government has emphasised that freedom of speech and a free press are crucial for a healthy democracy, and journalists must be able to go about their work without being threatened.
The UK government has confirmed that it is collating relevant information with a view to taking action against individuals involved in election-related violence in Nigeria. The government has expressed its commitment to supporting democracy and electoral processes in Nigeria and other countries around the world. The UK's stance on election-related violence is clear, and the government has made it clear that it will not tolerate any acts of violence that undermine the democratic process. The British High Commission has urged all parties involved to respect the outcome of the elections and to work together towards ensuring a peaceful and prosperous future for Nigeria.
