The Federal Government has dismissed reports suggesting the existence of a secret multi-agency scheme allegedly designed to illegally arrest, detain, or prosecute leading opposition politicians.
The government described a widely circulated document making the claim as “fabricated” and part of a coordinated effort to spread disinformation.
The document, which has gone viral across social media and other platforms, purportedly detailed a special task force allegedly known as “ADP4VIP” (Arrest, Detain, Prosecute for Very Important Persons), said to involve anti-corruption agencies such as the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission.
According to the claims, the task force—allegedly coordinated by the Office of the National Security Adviser—was meant to target prominent opposition figures in order to undermine opposition politics ahead of the 2027 general elections.
However, in a press statement released on Tuesday by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, the Federal Government rejected the claims and denied that any such initiative exists.
The statement said, “The Federal Government of Nigeria categorically states that it harbours no plans to unlawfully arrest, detain, or prosecute opposition figures. This clarification is in response to a fabricated document in circulation alleging the establishment of a non-existent multi-agency task force for a purported programme tagged “ADP4VIP” (Arrest, Detain, Prosecute for Very Important Persons).
“The baseless document falsely claims that a task force comprising the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), and the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU), coordinated by the Office of the National Security Adviser, aims to aggressively target prominent opposition figures without due process.
“The authors of this deliberate disinformation imprudently cite ‘multiple credible sources’ to allege a planned ‘systematic weakening and neutralisation of opposition political activity,’ particularly within the African Democratic Congress (ADC).”
Reiterating that ADP4VIP does not exist, the government added, “The administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, is firmly and successfully focused on its core agenda: implementing measurable economic reforms, defeating insecurity, expanding trade opportunities, and restoring investor confidence.
“The attempt by some opposition elements to frame lawful accountability as political targeting is a dangerous red herring designed to shield so-called VIPs from answering to our national laws and anti-corruption agencies.”
The government reaffirmed its commitment to democratic values, citing Section 40 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), which guarantees Nigerians the right to freedom of association and assembly.
It also referenced President Tinubu’s constitutional oath and democratic credentials, stating, “The Federal Government remains unwavering in its commitment to the rule of law, due process, and the independence of institutions.”
The statement further warned against the spread of false information, noting that misinformation campaigns are likely to increase as the 2027 elections draw closer.
Nigerians were urged to reject “the politics of distortion and division” and remain alert.
The clarification comes amid heightened political tension, including ongoing discussions about opposition alliances and the potential role of parties such as the ADC in challenging the ruling All Progressives Congress in future elections.
