By Ayo Ayodele
The Federal Government has dismissed as false and misleading claims that it is planning to target opposition figures for unlawful arrest, detention, or prosecution.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, December 30, 2025, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, fnipr, described as fabricated a document circulating in some quarters alleging the creation of a multi-agency task force to clamp down on political opponents.
The document had alleged the existence of a programme tagged “ADP4VIP” — an acronym for Arrest, Detain, Prosecute for Very Important Persons — purportedly 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.
According to the Federal Government, no such programme or task force exists. It described the claims as deliberate disinformation aimed at misleading the public and portraying lawful accountability as political persecution, particularly against members of opposition parties.
The government stressed that 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, rather than engaging in political intimidation.
Reaffirming its commitment to democratic principles, the government cited Section 40 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), which guarantees Nigerians the right to freedom of association and assembly. It noted that President Tinubu, who it described as a committed democrat, is bound by his oath of office to uphold the Constitution and protect these freedoms.
The statement further emphasized that Nigeria remains a constitutional democracy where law enforcement and judicial institutions are expected to operate independently, professionally, and in accordance with due process, without political interference.
The government warned politicians and members of the public against the spread of disinformation and fake news, noting that such practices undermine public trust and national cohesion. It also cautioned that as the 2027 general elections draw closer, fabricated narratives and political blackmail may increase.
The Federal Government urged Nigerians to remain vigilant, reject divisive falsehoods, and support credible information, assuring that the Tinubu administration will remain focused on delivering continuity, progress, and tangible results for the country.
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