The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Rivers State has clarified that Kingsley Chinda, also known as O.K. Chinda, remains their valid governorship candidate despite circulating reports of a Supreme Court judgment nullifying his candidacy. Chibuike Ikenga, the APC's Publicity Secretary in Rivers State, addressed the issue, emphasizing that Chinda's candidacy is intact. He described the reports as baseless and unfounded.
The controversy arose following a Supreme Court judgment delivered on September 24, 2026, which enforced strict compliance with Section 77(5) and (6) of the Electoral Act. This section mandates political parties to submit their verified register of members to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) at least 30 days prior to their primary elections. The judgment sparked debates about its implications for candidates whose parties might not have adhered to this requirement.
Opponents and legal analysts had argued that Chinda's official notice of defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the APC on June 2, 2026, potentially invalidated his nomination due to the timing and the Supreme Court's precedent. However, Ikenga assured that Chinda's candidacy is secure, having met all INEC-prescribed qualifications and being positively affected by the Supreme Court's ruling.
A thorough review of the Supreme Court's judgment and its implications reveals that the apex court did not issue a direct order or specific judgment nullifying Chinda's candidacy. The APC's clarification aims to dispel misinformation and assure supporters and the public of Chinda's continued eligibility. The party maintains that Chinda is fully qualified and cleared for the election.
The Supreme Court's judgment was a landmark decision that affects political parties' compliance with electoral laws. By enforcing strict adherence to Section 77(5) and (6) of the Electoral Act, the court aimed to ensure transparency and accountability in political parties' membership registration processes. The Rivers APC has expressed confidence in Chinda's candidacy, emphasizing that he has fulfilled all necessary requirements.
The clarification from the Rivers APC comes as political activities intensify in preparation for the upcoming elections. Chinda's candidacy has been a subject of interest, and the party's statement seeks to put to rest speculation about his eligibility. Supporters and political observers are keenly watching developments in the Rivers State APC as the election approaches.
The Rivers APC's affirmation of Chinda's candidacy underscores the party's commitment to transparency and adherence to electoral laws. As the election draws near, political parties are under scrutiny to ensure compliance with regulations. The APC's stance on Chinda's candidacy reflects its confidence in his qualifications and eligibility to contest the election.
Key points
- The Rivers State APC has dismissed reports that the Supreme Court nullified Kingsley Chinda's governorship candidacy.
- Chinda's candidacy remains intact, having met all INEC-prescribed qualifications.
- The Supreme Court's judgment did not directly affect Chinda's nomination or eligibility.
