APC denies role in ADC attack, dismisses coalition threat ahead of 2027

2026-03-24 - 16:14

By Ike Uchechukwu, Calabar The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Cross River State has denied any involvement in the political violence that disrupted an African Democratic Congress (ADC) event in Bakassi. APC State Chairman, Hon. Christopher Etta, said the clash resulted from an internal crisis within the ADC, not the ruling party. Speaking in Calabar, Etta maintained that the APC does not shy away from opposition but thrives on contesting ideas in a “marketplace of ideas.” “From our findings, they had two factions. One faction was opening or taking over a secretariat which the other faction had. That is where their problem came,” he said. He questioned why the APC was linked to the incident, suggesting that some individuals may have exploited the situation for publicity. “What is APC to gain? The way you are seeing this state currently, does it look like we are afraid of anybody?” Etta asked. The chairman, who assumed office barely two weeks ago, said all internal disputes within the APC have been resolved, describing the party as united ahead of its zonal congress. He further stated that opposition parties in the state pose no real threat to the APC’s dominance. Etta dismissed concerns over a proposed ADC coalition involving former governors Donald Duke and Liyel Imoke, alongside other political figures such as Senator Gershom Bassey and former Minister Usani Usani. “How can you ask if we are scared of them? Why should we be? They pose no threat to our electoral success,” he said, adding that their combined strength “means nothing” to the APC. He reaffirmed that Cross River remains firmly under APC control, while welcoming stronger opposition to foster healthy democratic competition. “Politics is a game of contest — in ideas, interests, and even ambition. What some call disunity is not unusual; it is part of the process,” Etta added. He likened visible political tensions to activity in a theatre, describing them as natural elements of democratic engagement rather than signs of instability. The APC chairman expressed confidence ahead of the 2027 elections, stating that the party’s performance would secure victory.