Chinda Faces Disqualification Over Late Defection Claims

Kingsley Chinda, representing the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the Rivers State governorship race, is facing disqualification over allegations of a late defection from the People's Democratic Party (PDP). Chinda won the APC governorship primary election on May 21, 2026, but officially announced his resignation from the PDP during a plenary session in the National Assembly on June 2, 2026.

His letter of resignation, dated April 23, 2026, has led to legal scrutiny regarding the timing of his defection. The Allied Democratic Party (ADP) has initiated legal proceedings in the Federal High Court in Abuja to prevent the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) from recognizing Chinda as the APC candidate.

They argue that his defection was not completed until the announcement was made in the House of Representatives, which raises serious constitutional concerns about his eligibility. The ADP has also requested access to APC membership records to confirm Chinda's registration status.