Our Reporter, Abuja
The Federal Government on Tuesday dismissed as false and misleading claims that it is planning to unlawfully arrest, detain or prosecute opposition political figures, describing the allegations as a fabrication designed to spread disinformation.
In a press release issued in Abuja, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, said the claims were based on a “non-existent” document alleging the creation of a multi-agency task force under a programme tagged ADP4VIP (Arrest, Detain, Prosecute for Very Important Persons).
According to the minister, the document falsely alleged that a task force comprising 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 set up to target prominent opposition figures, particularly members of the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
Idris said the Federal Government “categorically states that it harbours no plans to unlawfully arrest, detain, or prosecute opposition figures,” stressing that no such programme as ADP4VIP exists.
He said the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu remains focused on its core priorities, including economic reforms, tackling insecurity, expanding trade opportunities and restoring investor confidence.
“The attempt by some opposition elements to frame lawful accountability as political targeting is a dangerous red herring designed to shield so-called VIPs from answering to our national laws and anti-corruption agencies,” the minister said.
Idris reaffirmed the government’s commitment to constitutional democracy, noting that Section 40 of the 1999 Constitution guarantees Nigerians the right to free association and assembly. He said President Tinubu, whom he described as a democrat, remains committed to upholding the Constitution, the rule of law and due process.
Under the current administration, he added, law enforcement and judicial institutions are expected to carry out their responsibilities professionally and independently, without political interference.
The minister warned politicians and citizens against engaging in disinformation and fake news, particularly as the 2027 general elections draw closer, saying fabricated narratives and political blackmail were likely to increase.
He urged Nigerians to remain vigilant and reject what he described as “the politics of distortion and division,” while reiterating that all citizens have the right to lawful political activity, just as security and anti-corruption agencies have the mandate to operate in the national interest.
“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,” Idris said, adding that the Tinubu administration remains committed to delivering continuity, progress and tangible results for Nigerians.
