BREAKING: Atiku-linked Lobby Firm Pushes US Sanctions Over Nigeria’s Insecurity

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According to a report by Punch, on Friday May 1, 2026, a United States-based lobbying firm has raised concerns about insecurity and electoral issues in Nigeria, warning that it may push for sanctions if the situation does not improve.

‎The group, Von Batten-Montague-York, L.C., made its position known in a statement shared online on Wednesday, it said it had started briefing officials in the administration of Donald Trump about developments in Nigeria.

‎According to the firm, there are growing concerns about election interference and ongoing violence in the country, it said these issues are affecting how many Nigerians view the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

‎The firm explained that it does not have the power to remove any leader in Nigeria, it stressed that only Nigerian citizens can decide who leads them through elections, however, it said it would continue to speak to US authorities about Nigeria’s situation.

‎The lobbying effort is linked to a contract with former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, the agreement, signed earlier in 2026, allows the firm to engage US policymakers on issues related to Nigeria’s democracy and security.

‎The firm stated that its goal is to encourage international attention on violence and the need for free and fair elections in Nigeria, it added that it may recommend sanctions if there is strong evidence of human rights abuses or election malpractice.

‎It specifically mentioned the possibility of sanctions under the Global Magnitsky Act, such measures could include freezing assets of individuals found to be involved in serious violations.

‎The group raised concerns about the role of the Independent National Electoral Commission, it warned that any weakness in the electoral system could affect the credibility of future elections.