US Mission in Nigeria Vows Visa Ban on Corrupt High-Profile Officials

 

The United States Mission in Nigeria has warned that corrupt Nigerian officials—no matter their status—risk facing visa restrictions and other measures if found guilty of graft or abuse of office.

In a statement released on its official X handle (formerly Twitter), the Mission stressed that the fight against corruption has “no borders and no limits on accountability.” It noted that the U.S. government is committed to holding individuals accountable, including those occupying high-profile political positions.

This warning comes amid renewed allegations of corruption against Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, following a petition filed by activist Omoyele Sowore. Sowore urged U.S. authorities to investigate Wike’s alleged acquisition of properties in Florida, United States, which he claims were purchased with illicit funds. The petition also called for visa bans and sanctions to be imposed on the minister.

While the Mission did not name specific individuals, the timing of the announcement has fueled speculation that the U.S. may be responding to rising concerns over corruption at senior levels of the Nigerian government.

The United States has previously deployed visa bans as a diplomatic tool in Nigeria. Ahead of the 2023 general elections, Washington imposed restrictions on certain political figures accused of election interference, vote buying, and violence. However, the identities of those affected were not made public.

By reiterating its stance, the U.S. Mission has signaled a tougher posture against corruption in Nigeria—one that could affect the global mobility and reputation of officials implicated in graft.

The statement has sparked debate in Nigeria’s political circles, with many observers noting that international sanctions could become an added layer of pressure in the country’s fight against entrenched corruption.