US Firm Moves Against INEC, Seeks Congress, Trump’s Intervention Over ADC Crisis
A United States-based policy firm, Von Batten-Montague York L.C., has announced that it plans to engage the U.S. Congress and the administration of Donald Trump regarding the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to withdraw recognition of the leadership of the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
Papers News reports that INEC had suspended official dealings with the party and withdrew 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.
However, in a statement on Friday, the firm described the move as effectively placing a major opposition party in limbo at a critical time.
In a statement issued on Friday, the firm warned that INEC’s action could significantly affect political participation, describing the move as effectively placing 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“The Nigerian Independent National Electoral Commission has withdrawn recognition of the leadership of the African Democratic Congress and suspended all official engagement with the party pending ongoing litigation.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 the credibility of 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 of the United States in 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 the forthcoming elections are conducted transparently, credibly, and in line with the will of the electorate.
