A United States-based lobbying firm, Von Batten Montague York, has announced plans to recommend sanctions against Nigerian politicians and officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) found to be involved in electoral malpractice. The firm made this known in a statement released on Wednesday, citing concerns over the integrity of Nigeria’s electoral process.
The firm said it would identify and spotlight individuals engaged in election rigging and forward their names to the Office of the United States President and the US Congress. It added that the recommended sanctions may include asset freezes, travel bans and restrictions from the global financial system.
Von Batten Montague York also raised concerns about the performance of INEC, noting that while the United States State Department has acknowledged its capacity to conduct credible elections, there have been recurring weaknesses when political actors attempt to interfere in the process. The firm said similar concerns were observed during the 2023 general elections.
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The lobbying firm was recently engaged by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar to manage his international reputation and policy engagement in the United States. The agreement was signed by the firm’s Managing Partner, Mr Karl Von Batten, and Nigerian politician Mr Fabiyi Oladimeji, with provisions to facilitate engagements with US officials and provide strategic advisory support.
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