In a dramatic political shift, Kingsley Chinda, the minority leader of the House of Representatives, has officially announced his defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC) ahead of the 2027 general elections. The lawmaker, who is also the APC governorship candidate for Rivers State, cited the lingering internal crisis and leadership struggles within the PDP as the primary reasons for his departure.
Chinda Cites PDP Crisis
Chinda stated that the ongoing turmoil within the PDP has weakened party unity and hampered effective political coordination as the next election approaches. The defection was formalized in a letter dated April 23, 2026, which was read on the floor of the House by Speaker Tajudeen Abbas. This move follows Chinda's resignation from his position as minority leader.
Ally of Wike
Kingsley Chinda is a known ally of Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory. He recently emerged as the APC governorship candidate for Rivers State after key aspirants, including Governor Siminalayi Fubara, withdrew from the race. The development marks a significant realignment in Rivers State politics, as Chinda joins the ruling party after a long tenure in the opposition.
Political analysts view this defection as a major boost for the APC in Rivers State, potentially reshaping the political landscape ahead of the 2027 elections. Meanwhile, the PDP faces internal challenges as it loses a prominent figure to the ruling party.
