NIGERIA: FG Denies Alleged Plot Against Opposition, Warns Against Political Disinformation

By Ameenat Hamzat, Lagos, Nigeria 

The Federal Government has dismissed claims circulating on social media alleging a plan to unlawfully target opposition figures, describing the report as false, misleading, and deliberately fabricated.

In a statement issued on Tuesday by the Honourable Minister of Information and National Orientation Federal Republic of Nigeria, Mohammed Idris, FNIPR, the government clarified that it has no intention to arrest, detain, or prosecute opposition members outside the ambit of the law.

The clarification followed the circulation of a document alleging the creation of a fictitious multi-agency task force under a programme allegedly named “ADP4VIP.”

According to the government, no such programme exists, and there is no coordinated effort involving the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission, or the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit to undermine opposition political activity.

The administration reiterated that its focus remains on governance priorities, including economic reforms, tackling insecurity, expanding trade, and restoring investor confidence, rather than engaging in politically motivated actions.

The statement reads: “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. ”

It further stated that attempts to portray lawful accountability as political persecution are intended to distract from anti-corruption efforts and erode public trust in state institutions.

The Federal Government reaffirmed its commitment to the 1999 Constitution, which guarantees freedom of association and political participation, noting that these rights remain protected under Nigeria’s democratic framework.

It 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. ”

It emphasised that security and law enforcement agencies operate independently and are mandated to carry out their responsibilities professionally and in the national interest, guided strictly by due process and the rule of law.

As the country approaches the 2027 general elections, the government cautioned Nigerians against the spread of misinformation and politically motivated falsehoods, urging citizens to remain vigilant and rely on credible sources of information.

The administration assured the public that it remains committed to stability, democratic values, and delivering tangible progress, stressing that it will not be distracted by disinformation campaigns or partisan narratives.