A United States-based lobbying firm representing former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Von Batten-Montague-York, L.C., has expressed concerns over what it described as alleged political intimidation and shrinking democratic freedoms in Nigeria ahead of the 2027 general elections.
In a statement shared on its official X account on Monday, the firm said it had begun engaging officials in the United States government regarding alleged human rights issues in Nigeria. The concerns raised include claims of intimidation of political opponents, arrests of critics, and what it described as increasing pressure on democratic institutions.
According to the lobbying group, the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is allegedly exhibiting tendencies that could weaken democratic principles and suppress dissenting voices.
The firm claimed that individuals and public figures critical of the government have increasingly faced arrests, detention, or corruption-related charges, adding that it is monitoring cases it considers troubling.
Among the cases cited was that of former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, whom the group alleged was prosecuted following his criticism of the current administration. It also referenced businessman John Olatunde Ayeni, alleging that he had faced legal pressure after criticizing government policies.
The organization further alleged that beyond high-profile individuals, many ordinary Nigerians without public recognition were experiencing intimidation and arrests without significant international attention.
It stated that it intends to formally brief the administration of U.S. President Donald Trump and members of the U.S. Congress on what it described as the increasing use of state institutions to silence opposition voices ahead of future elections.
The development comes amid heightened political tension surrounding El-Rufai’s legal situation. Reports indicate that the former governor has remained in custody for 91 days despite being granted ₦100 million bail by a Federal High Court in a case linked to alleged national security concerns.
Justice Joyce Abdulmalik had approved his bail with conditions that included providing a senior civil servant as surety and submitting valid property documentation.
El-Rufai’s prolonged detention has triggered reactions from supporters, family members, and political associates, some of whom have staged demonstrations at the Department of State Services headquarters in Abuja. Protesters accused security agencies of failing to comply with court directives and raised concerns over his access to medical treatment and legal rights.
Atiku’s US Lobby Firm Raises Concerns Over Alleged Political Intimidation, Plans Briefing for Trump Administration
