The Federal Government has denied circulating claims that it plans to arrest, detain, or prosecute opposition figures through a secret programme or task force known as ADP4VIP. It described the claims as fake and misleading, saying they were deliberately created to spread fear, misinformation, and disinformation among the public.
This position was made known in a press release issued on Tuesday by Mohammed Idris, fnipr, Honourable Minister of Information and National Orientation. The government said the document currently in circulation, which alleges the creation of a multi-agency task force targeting opposition figures, is entirely fabricated and does not reflect any policy or action of the administration.
According to the statement, “The Federal Government of Nigeria categorically states that it harbours no plans to unlawfully arrest, detain, or prosecute opposition figures.” The clarification followed allegations of a non-existent programme tagged ADP4VIP, meaning Arrest, Detain, Prosecute for Very Important Persons.
The fake document claimed that a task force made up of 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 set up to target prominent opposition members without due process.
It further alleged, without evidence, that the programme was aimed at the “systematic weakening and neutralisation of opposition political activity,” particularly within the African Democratic Congress (ADC). The government dismissed these claims as deliberate falsehoods designed to mislead the public.
The Federal Government stated emphatically that “there is no such programme as ADP4VIP.” It added that the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, remains focused on its core responsibilities, including implementing economic reforms, addressing insecurity, expanding trade opportunities, and restoring investor confidence.
The statement noted that attempts by some opposition elements to portray lawful accountability as political persecution are dangerous and misleading. According to the government, such narratives are often used to shield certain individuals from answering to national laws and established anti-corruption agencies.
The government also reaffirmed its commitment to constitutional principles, referencing Section 40 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), which guarantees every Nigerian the right to freely associate and assemble. It stressed that President Tinubu took an oath to uphold the Constitution, including freedoms of association and religion, and described him as “a democrat with considerable and positive footprints.”
Under President Tinubu’s leadership, the government said it remains committed to the rule of law, due process, and the independence of institutions. It emphasized that Nigeria is a constitutional democracy where law enforcement and judicial bodies are expected to operate professionally, without political interference, and in the best interest of the nation.
Politicians and citizens were urged to desist from spreading disinformation, misinformation, and fake news, especially at a time when public credibility depends on accurate information. The government warned that as the 2027 general elections approach, fabricated narratives and political blackmail may increase.
The statement urged Nigerians to remain vigilant and reject politics built on distortion and division. It added that while every Nigerian has the constitutional right to lawful political activity, security and anti-corruption agencies also retain their lawful 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,” the statement said, adding that Nigerians deserve continuity, progress, and tangible results.
