U.S. policy firm to engage Congress, Trump administration over INEC decision on ADC

A United States-based policy firm, Von Batten-Montague York L.C, has announced plans to engage members of the U.S. Congress and the administration of Donald Trump over the recent decision by Nigeria’s electoral body to withdraw recognition of the leadership of the African Democratic Congress, ADC.

The development follows a move by the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, earlier this week to suspend official dealings with the party and withdraw recognition of its leadership pending the outcome of ongoing litigation.

The decision has sparked concerns over its potential impact on preparations for the next presidential election.

In a statement issued on Friday, the firm warned that INEC’s action could significantly affect political participation, describing the move as one that effectively places a major opposition party in limbo at a critical time.

“The Nigerian Independent National Electoral Commission has withdrawn recognition of the leadership of the African Democratic Congress and suspended all official engagement with the party pending ongoing litigation.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 expressed concern that such developments could undermine confidence in the electoral system, stressing the importance of transparency and institutional independence in ensuring credible elections.

“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 relevance, the firm 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. It argued that the integrity of Nigeria’s electoral process holds broader international significance.

The organisation said it would formally present its concerns to U.S. lawmakers and the Trump administration to ensure that issues surrounding Nigeria’s democratic processes receive global attention.

It also called on President Bola Tinubu to ensure that forthcoming elections are conducted in a manner that is transparent, credible, and reflective of the will of the electorate.