RismadarVoice Reporters
September 23, 2026
A United States lobbying firm representing former Vice President Atiku Abubakar says it plans to file a $36 million federal lawsuit against President Bola Tinubu and former Aviation Minister Femi Fani-Kayode over alleged threats against its managing partner, Dr Karl Von Batten.
Von Batten-Montague-York, L.C. said the proposed action is expected to be filed next week before the United States District Court for the District of Columbia.
The firm alleged that Von Batten was threatened with kidnapping and physical harm and claimed the alleged threats formed part of a wider conspiracy involving figures connected to the Nigerian Presidency.
The allegations have not been established by a court.
The firm said the proposed case would seek $36 million in damages and raise questions under United States law concerning sovereign and presidential immunity.
It also said it intends to rely on provisions of US law dealing with terrorism-related civil claims in pursuing the action.
The announcement follows an escalating public dispute between Von Batten-Montague-York and Fani-Kayode. Fani-Kayode has previously denied threatening to kidnap or harm Von Batten.
Von Batten-Montague-York also said it intends to approach immigration authorities in the United States, United Kingdom and European Union concerning Fani-Kayode and request consideration of whether his travel or immigration status should be reviewed.
Any decision on such a request would rest with the relevant authorities.
The Washington-based firm is registered in the United States to provide government affairs and strategic advisory services to Atiku. A filing with the US Department of Justice confirms the firm’s engagement by the former vice president.
As of Wednesday, the announced $36 million complaint had not been independently confirmed through a federal court filing, meaning the claims remain allegations pending the commencement and determination of any legal proceedings.
