The Bola Tinubu-led government has denied claims that it plans to arrest, detain or prosecute opposition politicians ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The government was reacting to a circulating document alleging plns to clamp down on opposition figures in the country.
In a statement on Tuesday, the government said the document falsely alleged the creation of a non-existent multi-agency task force for a programme tagged “ADP4VIP” — Arrest, Detain, Prosecute for Very Important Persons.
According to the government’s spokesman and minister of information, Mohammed Idris, there is no such programme as “ADP4VIP”.
Idris said the Tinubu administration of is focused on implementing economic reforms, tackling 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,” he said.
Idris said section 40 of the 1999 Constitution guarantees Nigerians the right to freely associate and assemble, adding that the president swore an oath to uphold the constitution and its protections.
He further stated that the federal government remains committed to the rule of law, due process and the independence of institutions, noting that Nigeria is a constitutional democracy where law enforcement and judicial agencies must operate professionally and without interference.
The minister urged politicians and citizens to desist from disinformation, misinformation and fake news, especially as the 2027 general elections approach.
He added that while Nigerians have the constitutional right to lawful association and political activity, security and anti-corruption institutions also retain the mandate to operate in the national 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,” he concluded.
