House of Representatives Minority Leader, Hon. Kingsley Chinda, has been cleared by the All Progressives Congress to contest the party’s governorship primary in Rivers State ahead of the 2027 elections.

Chinda, who currently represents Obio/Akpor Federal Constituency under the Peoples Democratic Party, appeared before the APC screening committee on Saturday. His participation in the ruling party’s screening process has intensified speculation of a defection from the PDP, though he has not publicly confirmed any move.

The lawmaker is one of two prominent allies of FCT Minister Nyesom Wike tipped to contest the Rivers governorship race on the APC platform. The other is Dax George-Kelly, Director-General of the Border Communities Development Agency.

According to reports, Wike’s Rainbow Coalition has backed George-Kelly for the APC ticket and Chinda for the PDP ticket as part of a broader political arrangement for 2027. Chinda’s clearance sets him up for a possible showdown with incumbent Governor Siminalayi Fubara, who is also seeking the APC ticket for a second term. Other aspirants in the race include former APC governorship candidate Tonye Cole.

Although Wike has not officially named his preferred candidate, political observers say Chinda could have an advantage if he secures the minister’s backing. Wike has repeatedly stated he does not support Fubara’s re-election bid and promised to announce his chosen candidate at the appropriate time.

Chinda’s screening has also raised questions about party loyalty and legislative ethics, given his current role as PDP Minority Leader in the House of Representatives. Critics argue that holding a minority leadership position while contesting on the platform of the ruling party could create constitutional and political complications.

The APC governorship primary in Rivers State is scheduled for May 21, 2026.