A US lobbying firm, Von Batten-Montague-York, contracted by former Vice- President Atiku Abubakar, has stated it will propose sanctions against Nigerian political figures and Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) personnel who participate in undermining the country's electoral processes. This action comes amidst growing international concerns regarding electoral irregularities in Nigeria.
The firm announced on X (formerly Twitter) on Wednesday that it would begin identifying election officials and individuals implicated in rigging, with the aim of advocating for punitive measures. It indicated that offenders would be recommended for sanctions by the US President's office and Congress, potentially including the freezing of assets and the imposition of travel bans.
"We will recommend to the Office of the President and Congress that Global Magnitsky sanctions be imposed on any Nigerian politician or official of INEC who engages in efforts to rig Nigeria’s ongoing electoral process," the firm stated. It added, "These measures should include freezing all foreign assets, restricting access to the global financial system, and imposing travel bans on individuals and their immediate family members."
Von Batten-Montague-York noted that while the US State Department has acknowledged INEC's capability to conduct credible federal elections, the commission has frequently demonstrated vulnerabilities when faced with deliberate interference from political actors. The firm highlighted that these weaknesses were apparent during the 2023 elections, and "current developments suggest the same pattern may be emerging again."
Even though the US Congress is currently on Easter recess, the firm confirmed it is actively liaising with key lawmakers and intends to brief congressional leadership and senior officials from the national security council early next week. The firm commented, "Unlike the Biden Administration, which took no meaningful action in 2023, it is not in President Donald Trump’s nature to remain passive in the face of an election being openly undermined."
The firm reiterated its commitment to holding accountable any politicians or INEC officials who compromise the integrity of Nigeria's elections.
Atiku Abubakar recently engaged Von Batten-Montague-York to manage and enhance his "reputational standing" within the United States. The agreement, signed by managing partner Karl Von Batten and Nigerian politician Fabiyi Oladimeji on March 9 and 10, 2026, includes strategies to counteract the Nigerian government's lobbying efforts in Washington.
According to filings with the US Department of Justice, the firm will arrange meetings between Atiku and US officials and members of Congress. It will also offer "guidance on policy positioning, reputational considerations, and engagement strategy."
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