The Federal Government (FG) has debunked a viral document alleging a state-sponsored plot to target and prosecute high-profile opposition figures, describing it as a “fabricated” attempt to heat up the polity ahead of the 2027 general elections.
In a press statement on Tuesday, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, clarified that the government has no plans to unlawfully arrest or detain opposition members.
The response follows the circulation of a document claiming the existence of a program tagged “ADP4VIP” (Arrest, Detain, Prosecute for Very Important Persons).
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He stated that the purported multi-agency task force—allegedly involving the EFCC, ICPC, and NFIU—does not exist.
Idris added that the fabricated document claimed the task force was designed to “neutralize” opposition political activity, specifically citing the African Democratic Congress (ADC) as a target.
“There is no such programme as ‘ADP4VIP’,” the minister asserted. “The administration of President Bola Tinubu is firmly focused on measurable economic reforms, defeating insecurity, and restoring investor confidence.”
He emphasised that Nigeria remains a constitutional democracy where the right to free association is protected under Section 40 of the 1999 Constitution.
Idris noted that President Bola Tinubu, as a democrat, is committed to institutional independence and due process.
Idris stressed that lawful accountability should not be misrepresented by opposition elements as political targeting in an attempt to shield individuals from scrutiny by anti-corruption agencies.
The minister emphasised that law enforcement agencies were mandated to carry out their duties professionally and in the best interest of the nation, free from political interference.
He also urged the public to remain vigilant against a potential surge in fabricated narratives and political blackmail as the 2027 election cycle approaches.
As 2025 draws to a close, he enjoined citizens and politicians to desist from spreading disinformation.
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The minister stressed that in the current era, political relevance should not be sought through “falsehood as a strategy.”
“Nigerians deserve continuity, progress, and tangible results,” Idris concluded, stating that the Tinubu administration would not be distracted by “perpetual politicking” while transitioning into the new year.
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