U.S.-based policy firm Von Batten-Montague York L.C has announced plans to formally engage members of the U.S. Congress and the Trump administration over the recent decision by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to withdraw recognition of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) leadership.
INEC, earlier this week, announced it would suspend all official engagement with the party pending the resolution of ongoing litigation, sparking concerns about the implications for Nigeria’s 2027 presidential election.
In a statement released yesterday, the firm described INEC’s action as effectively freezing Nigeria’s main opposition party at a critical juncture, warning that it could undermine democratic participation and the credibility of electoral processes.
“The Nigerian Independent National Electoral Commission has withdrawn recognition of the leadership of the African Democratic Congress and suspended all official engagement with the party pending ongoing litigation,” the statement read.
“This action could hinder the opposition’s ability to organise and participate fully in the democratic process. At a time when Nigerians expect free, fair, and credible elections, any development that disrupts political participation, creates institutional uncertainty, or undermines the perceived independence of electoral bodies must be addressed with urgency and transparency.”
The firm highlighted Nigeria’s strategic importance as Africa’s largest democracy and a key partner to the United States in regional security, economic stability, and counterterrorism. It stressed that the integrity of Nigeria’s electoral process is of direct interest to the U.S. and global stability.
Accordingly, Von Batten-Montague York L.C said it would present its concerns to U.S. lawmakers and officials to ensure the importance of free, fair, and transparent elections in Nigeria remains on the international agenda.
The firm also called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to guarantee that the upcoming elections are conducted “beyond reproach, free from doubt, and fully reflective of the will of the Nigerian people.”
