The Federal Government has denied claims of a secret multi-agency operation aimed at unlawfully arresting, detaining or prosecuting prominent opposition politicians, describing a circulating document on the matter as fabricated and misleading.
In a statement issued on Tuesday by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, the government dismissed as false a viral document alleging the existence of a special task force codenamed “ADP4VIP” (Arrest, Detain, Prosecute for Very Important Persons).
The document, widely shared on social media, claimed that the alleged task force, involving anti-graft agencies such as the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) and the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU), was being coordinated by the Office of the National Security Adviser to target high-profile opposition figures ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The minister said the Federal Government had no such programme and no intention of using state institutions to persecute political opponents.
“The Federal Government of Nigeria categorically states that it harbours no plans to unlawfully arrest, detain, or prosecute opposition figures,” the statement said, describing the document as a product of deliberate disinformation.
According to the statement, the claims that the alleged task force was designed to systematically weaken opposition political activity, particularly within the African Democratic Congress, were baseless.
The government said the administration of President Bola Tinubu remained focused on its core agenda, including economic reforms, tackling insecurity, expanding trade opportunities and restoring investor confidence.
It warned against attempts to portray lawful accountability and anti-corruption efforts as political persecution, noting that such narratives were aimed at shielding individuals from facing the law.
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Reaffirming its commitment to democratic principles, the government cited Section 40 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), which guarantees freedom of association and assembly, and stressed President Tinubu’s oath to uphold the Constitution.
“The Federal Government remains unwavering in its commitment to the rule of law, due process, and the independence of institutions,” the statement added.
The government also cautioned Nigerians against the spread of disinformation and fake news, warning that such tactics were likely to intensify as the 2027 elections approach.
It urged the public to reject what it described as politics of distortion and division and to remain vigilant amid rising political tensions, including ongoing discussions about opposition coalitions ahead of future elections.