United States Mission in Nigeria has reacted to the disturbing events recorded during gubernatorial and state assembly elections held last week Saturday.

A statement from the American Embassy expressed deep concern over violent voter intimidation and suppression that took place in Lagos, Kano and other states.

It notes that members of its diplomatic mission observed the elections in Lagos and elsewhere and witnessed some of the incidents first-hand.

The American embassy says the use of ethnically charged rhetoric before, during, and after the gubernatorial election in Lagos was particularly concerning.

However, it hails political actors, religious and community leaders, youths, and citizens who spoke against violence and inflammatory language, and their commitment to the democratic process.

The U.S. urges Nigerian authorities to hold accountable and bring to justice individuals found to have ordered or carried out efforts to intimidate voters and suppress voting during the election process.

It warns that available actions, including additional visa restrictions, on individuals believed to be responsible for, or complicit in, undermining the elections will be considered.