Fani-Kayode and U.S. firm clash over Tinubu drug allegations

A diplomatic and legal confrontation has emerged between Nigerian High Commissioner to South Africa, Femi Fani-Kayode, and the U.S.-based lobbying firm Von Batten-Montague-York, L.C.

The dispute stems from the firm’s campaign to release U.S. records regarding historical drug-trafficking allegations involving Nigerian President Bola Tinubu. Fani-Kayode has challenged the firm to provide evidence for these claims, arguing that a 1993 U.S. Department of Justice civil forfeiture complaint was an action against property rather than a criminal finding or indictment against President Tinubu personally.

In response, Von Batten-Montague-York has accused Fani-Kayode of threatening to kidnap and physically harm its principal, Dr. Karl Von Batten. The firm stated it is briefing the U.S. Department of State and has reported the matter to the FBI as potential ‘transnational repression’. The firm also indicated plans to file a lawsuit against the Federal Republic of Nigeria and Fani-Kayode regarding these alleged threats.