Von Batten-Montague-York, a U.S.-based policy advisory and lobbying firm engaged by the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, has raised concerns over Nigeria’s Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) amid apprehensions about the integrity of upcoming elections.
The firm, which previously worked to influence U.S. policy perceptions of Atiku, criticised INEC for withdrawing recognition of the ADC leadership and suspending engagement with the party, describing the move as potentially disruptive to democratic participation ahead of the presidential election.
“While INEC has the capacity to credibly manage federal elections, there are persistent weaknesses in safeguarding free, fair, and credible processes when confronted by deliberate attempts to manipulate the system,” the firm said, recalling similar challenges during the 2023 elections.
Von Batten-Montague-York warned that the suspension of ADC’s official activities could hinder the party’s ability to organize and participate fully in the electoral process, highlighting the importance of transparency and institutional independence at a time when Nigerians expect credible elections.
The advisory firm disclosed plans to engage U.S. Congress and the administration of President Donald Trump to address the issue. It indicated that it may recommend Global Magnitsky sanctions, including freezing foreign assets, restricting access to the global financial system, and travel bans on Nigerian officials and their immediate families involved in undermining the electoral process.
According to the firm, unlike previous U.S. administrations, the Trump administration is expected to take a proactive stance in preventing election subversion, signalling potential international scrutiny and consequences for Nigerian politicians or officials implicated in controversial election practices.
