U.S-based policy firm, Von Batten-Montague York L.C, has announced plans to formally engage members of Congress and the Trump administration over the decision by the Independent National Electoral Commission’s (INEC) to discontinue recognition of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) leadership.
INEC had within the week announced that it has withdrawn recognition of the ADC leadership and halted all official engagement with the party pending the outcome of an ongoing litigation, raising fear of the implications of the action for the upcoming presidential election next year.
The firm, in a statement, yesterday, warned that the decision by INEC has effectively frozen the main opposition party in Nigeria and raised significant concerns about democratic participation and electoral credibility in Nigeria.
“The Nigerian Independent National Electoral Commission has withdrawn recognition of the leadership of the African Democratic Congress and suspended all official engagement with the party pending ongoing litigation.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.”
It called on President Bola Tinubu to ensure that the conduct and outcome of the upcoming elections were beyond reproach, “free from doubt, and fully reflective of the will of the Nigerian people.”
