- US Firm Raises Concern Over INEC Decision On ADC Leadership
- Move may affect opposition participation in upcoming elections
- Call for transparency and credibility in Nigeria’s electoral process
A United States based policy firm, Von Batten-Montague York L.C., has announced plans to engage the U.S. Congress and the administration of Donald Trump over the decision by Independent National Electoral Commission to withdraw recognition of the leadership of the African Democratic Congress.
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EKO HOT BLOG reports that INEC had earlier suspended official dealings with the party and withdrew recognition of its leadership pending the outcome of ongoing litigation.
The development has raised concerns over its potential impact on preparations for the next presidential election.
In a statement issued on Friday, the firm described the move as one that could place a major opposition party in a difficult position at a critical political moment.
“The Nigerian Independent National Electoral Commission has withdrawn recognition of the leadership of the African Democratic Congress and suspended all official engagement with the party pending ongoing litigation.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 warned that such actions could affect confidence in the electoral system, stressing the need for transparency and institutional independence.
“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 global importance, the firm noted that the country remains Africa’s largest democracy and a key partner of the United States in areas such as regional security, economic stability, and counterterrorism.
It said it would formally present its concerns to U.S. lawmakers and the Trump administration to draw international attention to the issue.
The organisation also called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to ensure that future elections are conducted transparently and in line with democratic principles.
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