Federal Government has dismissed as false and fabricated reports alleging plans to unlawfully arrest, detain, or prosecute opposition figures, reaffirming its commitment to the rule of law and due process.
In a statement signed by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, the government described a circulating document claiming the existence of a multi-agency task force tagged “ADP4VIP” as deliberate disinformation aimed at misleading the public.
The document alleged that a non-existent 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), under the coordination of the Office of the National Security Adviser, was created to target prominent opposition figures.
According to the government, the claims—purportedly based on “multiple credible sources”—falsely suggest a systematic effort to weaken opposition political activity, particularly within the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
Federal Government categorically stated that no such programme as “ADP4VIP” exists and stressed that the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu remains focused on its core agenda of economic reforms, tackling insecurity, expanding trade opportunities, and restoring investor confidence.
It further described attempts by some opposition elements to portray lawful accountability as political persecution as a dangerous effort to shield influential individuals from the reach of the law and anti-corruption agencies.
The government underscored that Section 40 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) guarantees all Nigerians the right to freely associate and assemble, noting that President Tinubu, whom it described as a committed democrat, has sworn to uphold the Constitution and its protections.
It reaffirmed that under President Tinubu’s leadership, law enforcement and judicial institutions operate independently and professionally in line with constitutional provisions and national interest.
The Federal Government also warned against the spread of disinformation, misinformation, and fake news, particularly as the 2027 general elections approach, urging Nigerians to remain vigilant and reject divisive and misleading narratives.
The statement concluded that while every Nigerian has the constitutional right to lawful political activity, security and anti-corruption agencies equally retain the mandate to act in the nation’s interest, adding that the administration remains focused on delivering continuity, progress, and tangible results for Nigerians.
Bello Wakili
