The All Progressives Congress (APC) has fired back at the African Democratic Congress (ADC), describing it as “its own nemesis” over allegations linking the ruling party to a shooting incident involving opposition members in Edo State.

In a press statement issued in Abuja on February 26, 2026, and signed by its National Publicity Secretary, Felix Morka, the APC said the ADC required “no external help to achieve its political demise,” accusing it of crippling itself through reckless public pronouncements.

The APC condemned what it described as the ADC’s premature claim that it was responsible for the incident in Edo State, insisting that no investigation had been concluded by law enforcement authorities.

“Accusing the APC even before any investigation is carried out by law enforcement is particularly senseless,” the statement read, adding that the ADC had assumed the roles of “accuser, investigator, prosecutor, and judge in its own cause.”

The ruling party said the opposition’s approach showed a lack of respect for due process and constitutional order.

Reacting to the ADC’s claim of “acts of terrorism” by the APC, the party described the characterization as reckless and unjustifiable.

“It reveals the ADC and its leaders as a confused bunch, desperate to whip up sentiments and curry public sympathy at all costs,” the statement added.

The APC argued that such rhetoric was insensitive to the sacrifices of security personnel engaged in the country’s counter-terrorism efforts.

While rejecting the allegation, the APC said it condemned all forms of political violence and called on the police and other security agencies to carry out an expeditious investigation into the Edo incident.

“Violence of any kind in our political space is unacceptable and must be condemned by all well-meaning Nigerians,” the party said.

However, it urged investigators to examine reported internal disputes within the ADC, alleging that factional struggles may have contributed to the crisis.

The APC maintained that it had no involvement in the incident and said it was focused on consolidating recent electoral victories.

The party referenced its wins in the Federal Capital Territory municipal elections and constituency polls in Rivers and Kano States, expressing gratitude to voters for what it described as a vote of confidence in President Bola Tinubu.

It reaffirmed its commitment to delivering governance and strengthening Nigeria’s democracy.

“Our Party and Mr President remain focused on building a stronger, more resilient and prosperous country for the good of all Nigerians,” the statement concluded.