Chinda's Switch to APC Clears Primary Election Confusion, Says Rivers Group

A socio-political group, the Rivers Development Agenda, has said that Kingsley Chinda's recent switch from the Peoples Democratic Party to the All Progressives Congress has settled questions about his eligibility for the APC governorship primary in Rivers State.

The group shared this in a statement released in Port Harcourt on Wednesday, signed by its spokesperson, Godpower Duke.

The RDA mentioned that Chinda's defection, effective from April 23, 2026, confirms that he met all legal and political requirements to run for the APC governorship ticket.

Chinda's eligibility for the APC primary had sparked debates, with some critics questioning if he had fully left the PDP before seeking a spot on the ruling party's ticket.

But the group stated that this new development has settled the issue.

"The latest developments have vindicated the group’s position that due process was followed and that Chinda’s participation in the APC governorship primaries followed every known legal requirement," the statement said.

The group also emphasized that Chinda’s defection supports its earlier claim that all necessary steps were followed for his participation in the APC governorship race.

It criticized those who doubted the former Minority Leader’s eligibility, arguing that many objections were made without understanding the full facts.

The group insisted that political disagreements should not turn into attacks on individuals or democratic institutions, especially without court rulings.

"Political debates should be conducted within the bounds of civility, facts, and respect for differing opinions."

They urged political actors, commentators, stakeholders, and the public to focus on discussing issues and respect established institutions.

The organization also called on Nigerians, political stakeholders, and the media to be careful and let due process happen before jumping to conclusions about sensitive political matters.

It stressed that public talks, especially on legal and constitutional issues, should be based on verified facts, sound reasoning, and a focus on what is best for Rivers State and the country.

Chinda is a key player in Rivers politics. He has served for many terms in the House of Representatives, representing Obio/Akpor Federal Constituency and was the Minority Leader in the Ninth National Assembly. His recent move from the PDP to the APC is seen as a major political event in Rivers State ahead of the 2027 general elections.

This defection occurs during ongoing political changes in Rivers and across Nigeria, as parties and political figures prepare for the next election cycle. The situation has also led to renewed discussions about party loyalty, internal democracy, and the legal rules for participating in party primaries.