A United States-based lobbying firm, Von Batten-Montague-York, L.C., has announced plans to pressure American authorities, including former President Donald Trump and members of Congress, to impose sanctions on Nigerian officials following the Independent National Electoral Commission’s (INEC) derecognition of leadership factions within the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
In a statement released on Wednesday, the firm expressed concern about INEC’s handling of Nigeria’s electoral process. While acknowledging the commission’s capacity to conduct credible elections, it accused the body of failing to withstand political interference, particularly during critical moments.
The firm pointed to the 2023 Nigerian general elections as an example, claiming that weaknesses in the system allowed manipulation and undermined electoral credibility. It warned that recent developments suggest a similar pattern could reoccur ahead of the 2027 elections.
According to the firm, it is already engaging U.S. policymakers and plans to brief senior officials, including members of Congress and the National Security Council, once lawmakers return from their Easter recess. It also criticised the previous administration under Joe Biden for what it described as inaction during the 2023 elections.
The lobbying group said it would recommend sanctions under the Global Magnitsky framework. Proposed measures include freezing foreign assets, restricting access to the international financial system, and imposing travel bans on affected individuals and their families.
This move follows an earlier statement by the firm, which argued that INEC’s decision has effectively weakened the ADC at a crucial time, potentially limiting the opposition party’s ability to organise and compete effectively.
The lobbying effort is tied to a $1.2 million contract reportedly signed by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar in March 2026, aimed at influencing U.S. policy discussions and strengthening his international engagement.
Meanwhile, INEC’s derecognition of rival leadership factions within the African Democratic Congress — including those linked to David Mark and Nafiu Bala — has deepened internal divisions in the party, raising broader concerns about the state of Nigeria’s multi-party democracy as the 2027 elections approach.
