Olushola Omogbehin
As part of its broader global agenda to promote accountability and good governance, the United States has stated that corrupt Nigerian officials regardless of their status or position, can be denied entry into the United States.
According to a statement posted on its official X handle on Monday, the US Mission in Nigeria said corruption will not go unpunished, regardless of rank or status.
“Fighting corruption knows no borders or limits on accountability. Even when high-profile individuals engage in corruption, they can be barred from receiving US visas,” the post read.
U.S. government which had previously imposed visa bans on Nigerian politicians for undermining elections and democratic processes said that restricting corrupt officials’ access to US soil is an essential tool in promoting accountability, transparency and respect for the rule of law in partner nations.
U.S Mission in Nigeria on July 29, published a damning report by The Africa Report that exposed how Nigerian governors had allegedly been lavishing billions of naira on building or renovating government houses despite widespread economic hardship.
The latest warning comes at a time when transparency advocates have raised concerns over alleged mismanagement of public funds and abuse of office across different levels of government in Nigeria.
Denying corrupt officials entry into the U.S is therefore part of its broader strategy to promote good governance, accountability and respect for the rule of law in partner nations which is part of Donald Trump’s stringent visa policies to monitor the influx of immigrants into the U.S.
