The Federal Government has vehemently denied allegations that it is planning to unlawfully arrest and detain opposition figures, describing a document circulating on social media as “fabricated disinformation.”
In a strongly worded statement issued on Tuesday by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, the government dismissed claims of an alleged programme tagged “ADP4VIP” (Arrest, Detain, Prosecute for Very Important Persons), saying no such initiative exists.
The controversial document, which has been circulating online, alleges the establishment of a multi-agency task force comprising the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission, and the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit purportedly coordinated by the Office of the National Security Adviser.
According to the claims, the alleged task force aims to systematically target prominent opposition figures, particularly within the African Democratic Congress without due process.
Responding to the allegations, Minister Idris stated categorically: “There is no such programme as ‘ADP4VIP.’
The administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is firmly and successfully focused on its core agenda, implementing measurable economic reforms, defeating insecurity, expanding trade opportunities, and restoring investor confidence.
The minister described the allegations as “a dangerous red herring designed to shield so-called VIPs from answering to our national laws and anti-corruption agencies.”
He emphasized that President Tinubu, who swore an oath to uphold the 1999 Constitution (as amended), remains committed to protecting the freedoms of association and assembly guaranteed under Section 40 of the Constitution.
“He is a democrat with considerable and positive footprints,” Idris stated, adding that the government remains “unwavering in its commitment to the rule of law, due process, and the independence of institutions.”
“With the 2027 general elections on the horizon, the public should anticipate an increase in fabricated narratives and political blackmail by actors who employ falsehood as a strategy for relevance. We urge all Nigerians to remain vigilant and to reject the politics of distortion and division.
“Every Nigerian retains the constitutional right to lawful association and political activity. Concurrently, our security and anti-corruption institutions retain the lawful mandate to operate in the nation’s 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. Nigerians deserve continuity, progress, and tangible results—and that is what the Tinubu Administration remains dedicated
Crediblenewsng.com
