US Lobby Firm Accuses Nigeria of Targeting Political Critics

The US lobbying firm Von Batten Montagu York L.C. has accused the Nigerian government, under President Bola Tinubu, of targeting political opponents and displaying authoritarian tendencies as the country approaches the 2027 general elections. The firm, which has engaged former Vice President Atiku Abubakar to draw attention to human rights concerns in Nigeria, stated that the government's actions reflect a pattern of political intimidation that shrinks democratic space.

Allegations include the arrest and prosecution of critics, with specific references to ongoing legal issues involving former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai and businessman John Olatunji Ayeni. El-Rufai has faced charges after publicly criticizing President Tinubu and has reportedly spent 91 days in custody despite a federal high court granting him bail of 100 million naira.

The firm emphasized that the intimidation extends beyond high-profile figures, affecting ordinary citizens who have faced arrest and intimidation without international attention.