Kingsley Chinda, a close ally of former Rivers State Governor Nyesom Wike, has secured the governorship candidacy of the All Progressives Congress for the 2027 election in Rivers State. This development followed the withdrawal of three other aspirants from the race.
Chinda Emerges as Sole Candidate
Chinda became the party's sole candidate after Governor Siminalayi Fubara, former governorship contender Tonye Cole, and Alabo Dakorinama George-Kelly reportedly stepped down from the contest on Wednesday night, May 20. The withdrawals paved the way for Chinda's unopposed emergence.
Primary Election Results
The Chairman of the APC State Governorship Primary Committee, Kwamoti Bitrus, announced that Chinda garnered 268,497 votes as the only aspirant in the primary election. Bitrus commended party members for their massive turnout and praised the dedication of party agents throughout the process. He also expressed gratitude to the state APC leadership for fostering a conducive environment for the exercise.
Chinda's Political Background
Chinda currently represents the Obio/Akpor Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives and serves as the Minority Leader of the 10th House. He was originally elected into the National Assembly under the platform of the People's Democratic Party before defecting to the APC.
Party Recalibration
Speaking after the primary, the APC Publicity Secretary in Rivers State, Chibike Ikenga, stated that the party has been "recalibrated" in the state. According to Ikenga, Chinda's emergence signals a reorganisation within the APC and positions the party with a candidate capable of promoting unity and development in Rivers State ahead of the 2027 governorship election.
