A United States based policy firm, Von Batten-Montague York L.C., has announced plans to brief members of the United States Congress and the Trump administration on Nigeria’s Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) decision to suspend recognition of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) leadership.
In a statement issued on the X formerly Twitter, the firm said the move by INEC, which temporarily halted all official engagement with the ADC pending the outcome of ongoing legal disputes, effectively freezes the activities of one of Nigeria’s key opposition parties at a critical time ahead of the next presidential election.
In a statement, the firm expressed concern that the decision could undermine democratic participation and the credibility of elections in Nigeria.
“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 urgently and transparently,” it said.
The firm also highlighted Nigeria’s strategic importance to the United States, citing its role in regional security, economic stability, and counterterrorism.
“The integrity of Nigeria’s electoral process is therefore of direct importance to U.S. interests and global stability,” the statement added.
As part of its planned engagement, the policy firm intends to ensure international attention remains on Nigeria’s democratic processes and urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to safeguard the integrity of upcoming elections.
“We call on H.E. Bola Ahmed Tinubu to ensure that the conduct and outcome of the upcoming elections are beyond reproach, free from doubt, and fully reflective of the will of the Nigerian people,” the firm said.
The intervention underscores growing international scrutiny of Nigeria’s electoral environment, particularly as political tensions rise ahead of the general elections.
INEC’s recent decision has already sparked controversies, with fears that the leadership dispute could have far-reaching implications for political competition and democratic stability in the country.
About Von Batten-Montague York L.C.
is a Washington, D.C.–based government affairs and public policy advisory firm. It works with U.S. government institutions, foreign governments, private organizations, and advocacy groups to influence policy, navigate regulatory frameworks, and provide strategic advice on legislative matters.
Services and Expertise
The firm specializes in policy advisory and strategic advocacy, helping clients understand and respond to U.S. government policies and regulations. Its work includes:
- Building advocacy campaigns and conducting regulatory impact analyses.
- Assisting with legislative drafting and policy communication strategies.
- Connecting clients with former U.S. government officials and subject-matter experts to support policy goals.
Areas of Focus
Von Batten-Montague York has been involved in:
- Trade and investment initiatives, such as fostering U.S.–Somalia business engagement.
- Foreign policy matters, including advocacy related to Somaliland and Somalia.
- Lobbying on human rights and social issues, for example initiatives connected to Nigeria’s End SARS movement.
- Hosting press conferences and policy events on topics such as international security and economic development.
- Supporting U.S. trade and policy programs, including advocacy for African countries’ eligibility under trade agreements.
- Registered lobbying and foreign agent activities under U.S. law for foreign governments and organizations.
Leadership
The firm’s founder and managing partner is Dr. Karl Von Batten, an international development and policy expert with extensive experience advising U.S. government agencies, Congress, and foreign partners. His expertise includes sanctions analysis, economic development, and governance strategy.
