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The Federal Government has dismissed as false claims that it plans to unlawfully arrest, detain, or prosecute opposition figures, describing a circulating document alleging such intentions as fabricated and misleading.
In a press release issued on Tuesday, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, fnipr, refuted reports suggesting the existence of a non-existent multi-agency task force allegedly set up under a programme tagged “ADP4VIP” (Arrest, Detain, Prosecute for Very Important Persons).
According to the statement, the document falsely claimed that a task force involving the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), and the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU), coordinated by the Office of the National Security Adviser, was established to target prominent opposition figures without due process, particularly within the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
“The Federal Government wishes to state emphatically that there is no such programme as ‘ADP4VIP,’” the statement said.
The government stressed that the administration of President Bola Tinubu, GCFR, remains focused on its core priorities, including economic reforms, tackling insecurity, expanding trade opportunities, and restoring investor confidence.
It also described attempts to portray lawful accountability as political persecution as a “dangerous red herring” aimed at shielding influential individuals from the reach of anti-corruption laws and institutions.
Reaffirming its commitment to constitutional democracy, the Federal Government cited Section 40 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), which guarantees Nigerians the right to freedom of association and assembly.
The statement noted that President Tinubu, whom it described as a committed democrat, has sworn to uphold these constitutional protections.
“The Federal Government remains unwavering in its commitment to the rule of law, due process, and the independence of institutions,” the release stated, adding that law enforcement and judicial agencies are expected to carry out their duties professionally and without political interference.
The government further warned against the spread of disinformation, misinformation, and fake news, especially as the 2027 general elections draw closer.
It urged Nigerians to remain vigilant and reject what it termed “the politics of distortion and division.”
“As we draw the curtain on 2025 and step into a new year, this government will not be distracted by those invested in perpetual politicking,” the statement concluded, assuring citizens of the administration’s dedication to continuity, progress, and tangible results.
ADP4VIP: Nigerian govt denies allegations of targeting opposition
