Kingsley Chinda Leaves PDP, Resigns as Minority Leader in Reps

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

Chinda, who represents Obio/Akpor Federal Constituency in Rivers State under the Peoples Democratic Party, shared 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 shifts happen in Rivers State. This follows weeks after he attended the All Progressives Congress screening committee with other supporters of Minister Nyesom Wike. They are preparing for the 2027 general elections.

Chinda has not officially announced leaving the PDP, but his involvement in the APC screening has raised questions about his next political move 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 assured his fellow lawmakers that he will continue to fulfill his duties despite 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 noted.

Chinda became Minority Leader when the 10th House was inaugurated in June 2023. This followed discussions among opposition parties, mainly the PDP, which had the most seats among the minority parties. He was a key voice for opposition lawmakers on major national issues like electoral reforms, constitutional changes, economic policies, and governance.

His resignation is part of the ongoing political changes in Rivers State, where alliances have been shifting rapidly.

Chinda has been a close political ally of Wike, who still plays a significant role in the state's politics even after becoming the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory.

Now that Chinda has stepped down, opposition lawmakers will likely discuss who will be the new Minority Leader.

According to House rules, the minority party with the most seats usually nominates this position, and this is communicated to the House leadership.

With Chinda's exit, the focus will likely turn to the PDP and other opposition parties as they try to stay united ahead of important legislative work and the upcoming elections.