The UK government has revealed that some elements are attempting to undermine democratic processes in Nigeria.
Nigeria holds general elections in February and March 2023, and the UK government has stated that it is closely monitoring the campaign.
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The UK’s Minister of State for Development & Africa, Andrew Mitchell, explained the importance of Nigeria to the UK in a statement released on Tuesday in Abuja by the British High Commission ahead of the 2023 general elections.
“The United Kingdom is aware of attempts to undermine democratic processes at the national or state level.
We are prepared to take action against those who engage in or incite electoral violence, as well as those who engage in other anti-democratic behaviour.
“These actions could include denying people UK visas or imposing sanctions under our human rights sanctions regime,” the Minister explained.
The UK government reaffirmed its commitment to supporting credible and inclusive elections, noting that election success was critical to Nigeria’s continued democratic growth as well as the future of regional and global democracy.
“Nigeria is important to the UK, and we are closely monitoring the run-up to the Presidential, National Assembly, and Gubernatorial elections,” Mitchell said.
The UK Government has pledged to continue working closely with INEC and Nigerian civil society partners to provide advisory support on electoral and legal reforms, assist in the strengthening of democratic institutions, and advocate for the importance of civil society engagement in electoral and democratic processes in order to deliver credible elections.
While calling for free, fair, and credible elections, the United Kingdom urged all actors in Nigeria to intervene proactively to reduce tensions and prevent violence in the run-up to, during, and after the elections.
