U.S.-based policy firm Von Batten-Montague York L.C. has announced plans to formally engage members of the United States Congress and the Trump administration over the Independent National Electoral Commission’s (INEC) decision to suspend recognition of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) leadership.
In a statement issued Friday, the policy firm warned that the decision raises significant concerns about democratic participation and electoral credibility in Nigeria.
The statement read; “The Nigerian Independent National Electoral Commission has withdrawn recognition of the leadership of the African Democratic Congress and suspended all official engagement with the party pending ongoing litigation.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.
“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.
“Nigeria is not only Africa’s largest democracy, but also a critical strategic partner of the United States 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.
“Accordingly, the firm will be presenting its concerns to members of the United States Congress and the Trump Administration to ensure that the importance of free, fair, and transparent democratic processes in Nigeria remains firmly on the international agenda.
“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’s intervention comes in response to INEC’s recent action withdrawing recognition of the ADC leadership and halting all official engagement with the party pending the outcome of ongoing litigation.
Already, the decision of INEC has led to controversies, with fears that the outcome of the ADC leadership dispute and INEC’s subsequent actions could have far-reaching implications for political competition and democratic stability in the country.
