Chinda dumps PDP for APC, resigns as Reps Minority Leader

The Minority Leader of the House of Representatives, Kingsley Chinda, has resigned his position as leader of the minority caucus, bringing to an end nearly three years of steering opposition lawmakers in the 10th House.

Chinda, who represents Obio/Akpor Federal Constituency of Rivers State on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party, announced his resignation in a letter dated April 23, 2026, which was read on the floor of the House on Tuesday by Speaker Tajudeen Abbas.

His resignation comes amid growing political realignments in Rivers State and weeks after he appeared before the screening committee of the All Progressives Congress alongside other loyalists of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, ahead of preparations for the 2027 general elections.

Although Chinda has yet to formally announce his resignation from the PDP, his participation in the APC screening process has fuelled speculation about his political future and possible defection to the ruling party.

In the letter addressed to the Speaker, the lawmaker expressed appreciation to his colleagues for the support he received while serving as Minority Leader.

“It has been a profound honour and privilege to serve in this capacity, representing the collective interest of the minority caucus and contributing to the legislative work of the House. I am grateful for the opportunity to have worked under your leadership and alongside distinguished colleagues in advancing democratic governance and national development,” he wrote.

Chinda also assured lawmakers that he would continue to discharge his legislative responsibilities despite relinquishing his leadership role.

“I remain fully committed to my duties as a member of the House and will continue to support the work of the legislature in every way possible. Please accept the assurances of my high esteem and continued regards,” the letter added.

Chinda emerged as Minority Leader at the inauguration of the 10th House in June 2023 following consultations among opposition parties, particularly the PDP, which held the largest number of seats among minority parties in the chamber. During his tenure, he played a prominent role in articulating the position of opposition lawmakers on key national issues, including electoral reforms, constitutional amendments, economic policies and governance matters.

His resignation is the latest development in the ongoing political reshaping of Rivers State, where alliances have shifted significantly in recent years.

Chinda has remained one of the prominent political associates of Wike, whose influence continues to shape the state’s political landscape despite his appointment as Minister of the Federal Capital Territory.

The resignation is expected to trigger consultations among opposition lawmakers on the choice of a new Minority Leader.

Under House convention, the position is usually nominated by the minority party with the highest number of seats and subsequently communicated to the House leadership.

With Chinda stepping down, attention is likely to shift to the PDP and other opposition parties as they seek to maintain cohesion within the minority caucus ahead of crucial legislative engagements and the build-up to the next electoral cycle.