A Washington-based lobbying firm, Von Batten-Montague-York, L.C., has warned that it might push for sanctions against the government of President Bola Tinubu.
In a statement shared on 𝕏 on Wednesday, the statement warned that drastic actions would be taken if insecurity and electoral integrity persist.
The firm stated that it was already briefing officials in the administration of US President Donald Trump on developments in Nigeria, particularly allegations of election interference and violence.
“H.E. Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the current President of Nigeria, is a statesman with a long and respected legacy. Nevertheless, his tenure as President is not viewed favourably by a majority of Nigerians,” the firm stated.
It added that while it had no authority to influence leadership changes in Nigeria, such power rests with citizens.
“As American registered foreign agents, we have no authority to remove a sitting leader from office; that power rests exclusively with the Nigerian people,” it said.
The firm disclosed that its engagement in Washington is tied to a contract with former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar, under which it is mandated to advocate for US involvement on issues relating to Nigeria’s democracy and security.
“Former Nigerian Vice President Atiku Abubakar is not your adversary, but a fellow statesman who has directed us to advocate for US engagement aimed at ending the killing of innocent Nigerians and ensuring that the right to free and fair elections is fully respected,” the statement read.
It further warned that the presidency is not guaranteed, stressing that leadership ultimately depends on the will of the electorate.
“The Nigerian presidency is not your birthright, but a privilege bestowed by the Nigerian people, and if the Nigerian people decide you have to go, then you have to go,” it added.
The firm also threatened to push for punitive measures under the Global Magnitsky framework if evidence emerges linking Nigerian officials to rights violations or electoral malpractice.
“We will continue to advocate for appropriate US accountability measures, including consideration of Global Magnitsky sanctions, to freeze assets wherever located, should credible evidence establish complicity in the killing of Christians in Northern Nigeria or in efforts to rig the upcoming presidential election,” it stated.
The development follows an earlier position by the firm in which it raised concerns over the role of the Independent National Electoral Commission, warning that weaknesses in safeguarding credible elections could undermine democratic processes.
It said it would engage the US Congress and National Security Council on the matter, noting that discussions with policymakers were ongoing.
The lobbying effort is linked to a $1.2 million contract signed in March 2026 by Atiku, which mandates the firm to shape policy conversations in Washington, engage US officials and manage his international profile ahead of the 2027 general elections.