A United States based policy firm, Von Batten Montague York L.C, has announced plans to engage members of the United States Congress and the administration of Donald Trump over the recent decision by Independent National Electoral Commission INEC concerning the African Democratic Congress ADC.
The move follows INEC’s decision to suspend official dealings with the party and withdraw recognition of its leadership pending the outcome of ongoing litigation.
In a statement issued on Friday, the firm warned that the action could significantly impact political participation, noting that it has effectively placed a major opposition party in a difficult position at a critical time ahead of the next presidential election.
“The Nigerian Independent National Electoral Commission has withdrawn recognition of the leadership of the African Democratic Congress and suspended all official engagement with the party pending ongoing litigation.
“This action has effectively frozen Nigeria’s main opposition political party at a critical moment as it prepares to compete in the upcoming Nigerian presidential election.
“The situation could hinder the opposition’s ability to organise and participate fully in the democratic process,” the statement read.
The firm further expressed concerns that the development could undermine confidence in the electoral system, stressing the need for transparency and institutional independence.
“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,” it added.
Highlighting Nigeria’s strategic importance, the organisation noted that the country remains Africa’s largest democracy and a key partner to the United States in areas such as regional security, economic stability, and counterterrorism.
The firm said it would formally present its concerns to United States lawmakers and the Trump administration to ensure that issues surrounding Nigeria’s democratic process receive international attention.
It also called on President Bola Tinubu to ensure that forthcoming elections are conducted in a transparent and credible manner that reflects the will of the electorate.
