The All Progressives Congress (APC) has alleged that internal leadership and factional struggles within the African Democratic Congress (ADC) may be responsible for the reported shooting incident that occurred during a meeting of ADC leaders in Edo State.

APC while strongly denying any involvement in the incident, described accusations linking it to the shooting as baseless, reckless and politically motivated.

APC’s National Publicity Secretary, Felix Morka, in a statement on Thursday condemned the shooting and called on security agencies to carry out a thorough, impartial and expeditious investigation to identify and prosecute those responsible.

The APC faulted the ADC for accusing it of responsibility for the incident even before law enforcement agencies commenced investigations, arguing that such claims undermine due process and reflect desperation rather than maturity in political conduct.

According to the APC, the ADC’s description of the incident as an act of “terrorism” allegedly sponsored by the ruling party was “reckless, unjustifiable and insensitive,” especially given Nigeria’s ongoing fight against terrorism and the sacrifices of security personnel across the country.

While reiterating that political violence in any form is unacceptable, the APC urged the police and other security agencies to examine all possible leads, including reported internal disputes within the ADC.

The party alleged that the ADC has been plagued by leadership crises and factional power struggles, including violent confrontations over control and access to party meetings, which it said may have culminated in the shooting.

“To be clear, the APC has absolutely no role or responsibility in the unfortunate shooting incident,” the statement said, adding that the party remains focused on governance and national development.

The APC also cited its recent electoral victories in the Federal Capital Territory, as well as constituency elections in Kano State and Rivers State, stressing that it has no interest in what it described as the internal affairs of a fringe opposition party.

APC expressed appreciation to Nigerians for their continued support and reaffirmed its commitment to building a stronger, more resilient and prosperous country under the leadership of President Bola Tinubu.