Kingsley Chinda Leaves PDP for APC, Resigns as Minority Leader in Reps

Kingsley Chinda, the Minority Leader of the House of Representatives, has stepped down from his role. This ends nearly three years of leading opposition lawmakers in the 10th House.

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

His resignation comes as political changes grow in Rivers State. It also follows his recent appearance before the screening committee of the All Progressives Congress. He was there with other supporters of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, as they prepare for the 2027 elections.

Though Chinda has not officially left the PDP, his involvement in the APC screening has sparked talk about his political future and a possible switch to the ruling party.

In his letter to the Speaker, Chinda thanked his colleagues for their support during his time 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 reassured his fellow lawmakers that he will keep up with his legislative duties even after stepping down from 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 became Minority Leader when the 10th House was inaugurated in June 2023. This happened after talks among opposition parties. The PDP held the most seats among minority parties in the chamber. During his time as leader, he voiced the opposition's stance on major national issues like electoral reforms, constitutional changes, economic policies, and governance matters.

His resignation is part of the ongoing political shift in Rivers State, where alliances have changed a lot in recent years.

Chinda is still a key political ally of Wike, whose influence is strong in the state despite becoming Minister of the Federal Capital Territory.

This resignation is likely to lead to talks among opposition lawmakers about who will be the next Minority Leader. Under House rules, the position is usually filled by the minority party with the most seats, which then informs the House leadership.

With Chinda stepping down, focus will likely turn to the PDP and other opposition parties as they work to keep unity in the minority caucus. This is important ahead of significant legislative work and the upcoming election cycle.