Chinda Resigns as Reps Minority Leader, Dumps PDP for APC

The Minority Leader of the House of Representatives, Kingsley Chinda, has formally resigned from his position and defected from the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, to the ruling All Progressives Congress.

Speaker of the House, Abbas Tajudeen, announced Chinda’s resignation and defection during plenary on Tuesday as lawmakers resumed legislative activities after a four week recess.

The recess allowed members to return to their constituencies to participate in party primaries ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Chinda’s formal resignation puts an end to weeks of speculation after he participated in the APC governorship primary in Rivers State without publicly resigning from the PDP or relinquishing his position as Minority Leader.

According to details contained in his resignation letter addressed to the Speaker, the lawmaker stepped down from the office effective April 23, 2026.

“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,” the letter read in part.

Chinda also expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve under the leadership of the Speaker while reaffirming his commitment to his legislative duties as a member of the House.

Despite the significance of the development, Chinda was absent during Tuesday’s plenary when the announcement was formally made.

The controversy surrounding his political status had intensified in recent weeks following reports that he purchased APC governorship nomination forms and participated in the party’s primary election without publicly declaring his defection on the floor of the House.

House spokesperson, Akin Rotimi, had earlier defended the process, stating that Chinda duly notified the House leadership before lawmakers proceeded on recess.

Rotimi argued that neither the Constitution, the Electoral Act nor the Standing Orders of the House made it compulsory for resignation or defection letters to be read during plenary.

Tuesday’s announcement officially confirms Chinda’s exit from the PDP and marks one of the most significant political realignments in the House of Representatives ahead of the 2027 elections.

Attention is now expected to shift to the PDP caucus in the House as consultations begin for the emergence of a new Minority Leader.