The federal government has dismissed claims that it is targeting opposition figures in its anti-graft efforts.
Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, clarified that the government has no plans to unlawfully arrest, detain, or prosecute opposition leaders.
The statement came in response to a fabricated document alleging the creation of a non-existent multi-agency task force called “ADP4VIP” (Arrest, Detain, Prosecute for Very Important Persons).
Idris explained that the document falsely claims a task force involving the EFCC, ICPC, and NFIU, coordinated by the Office of the National Security Adviser, intends to aggressively target prominent opposition members, particularly within the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
He noted that the report misleadingly cites “multiple credible sources” to suggest a planned “systematic weakening and neutralisation of opposition political activity.”
“There is no such programme as ‘ADP4VIP,’” the Minister emphasized. He added that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration remains focused on implementing economic reforms, tackling insecurity, expanding trade, and restoring investor confidence.
Idris described the attempt to label lawful accountability as political targeting as a dangerous diversion meant to shield so-called Very Important Personalities (VIPs) from the law.
“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,” he said.
He assured that the government will not be distracted by perpetual politicking, stressing that Nigerians deserve continuity, progress, and tangible results, which the Tinubu administration is committed to delivering.
The minister stated, “The Government underscores its foundational principles. Section 40 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) guarantees every Nigerian the right to freely associate and assemble. President Tinubu swore an oath to uphold this Constitution and its protections, including the freedoms of association and religion. He is a democrat with considerable and positive footprints.
“Under President Tinubu’s leadership, the Federal Government remains unwavering in its commitment to the rule of law, due process, and the independence of institutions. Nigeria is a constitutional democracy where law enforcement and judicial agencies are obligated to perform their duties professionally, without interference, and in the nation’s best interest.
“Politicians and citizens are therefore enjoined to desist from engaging in disinformation, misinformation, and fake news, especially in an era where credibility is intrinsically linked to informational fidelity.
“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 to delivering.”
