The Federal Government has refuted claims of a clandestine multi-agency operation aimed at unlawfully arresting, detaining, or prosecuting prominent opposition politicians.

The government labeled a viral document on the matter as “fabricated” and part of deliberate disinformation.

The controversial document, which has been circulating on social media and other platforms, allegedly described a special task force, codenamed “ADP4VIP” (Arrest, Detain, Prosecute for Very Important Persons) and involving the anti-graft agencies including the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission.

It claimed the task force, purportedly coordinated by the Office of the National Security Adviser, was designed to target high-profile opposition figures, in a bid to weaken opposition political activity ahead of the 2027 general elections.

But in a press release issued on Tuesday by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, the government denied the existence of such programme.

The statement read, “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).”

Denying existence of ADP4VIP, the Federal 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.”

Reaffirming its commitment to democratic principles, the government invoked Section 40 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), which guarantees every Nigerian the right to freely associate and assemble.

It highlighted President Tinubu’s oath to uphold the Constitution and his record as a democrat.

“The Federal Government remains unwavering in its commitment to the rule of law, due process, and the independence of institutions,” the release stated.

The government also cautioned against the spread of disinformation and fake news, warning that such tactics are likely to intensify as the 2027 elections approach.

It urged Nigerians to reject “the politics of distortion and division” and remain vigilant.

The press release comes amid ongoing political tensions, including discussions around opposition coalitions and the role of parties like the ADC in potential challenges to the ruling All Progressives Congress in future elections. (The PUNCH)