Rivers 2027: APC Clears Ogundu Kingsley Chinda for Governorship Race

The All Progressives Congress (APC) Governorship Screening Committee for Rivers State has officially declared Ogundu Kingsley Chinda as the party’s governorship candidate ahead of the 2027 general elections, setting the stage for a high-stakes political contest in the oil-rich state.

The announcement followed the conclusion of the party’s screening exercise, where Chinda and other aspirants were evaluated based on eligibility, political experience, and compliance with APC guidelines for the forthcoming primaries.

Party officials said the decision was reached after a thorough review of all submissions and interviews conducted by the screening panel, which assessed candidates on leadership capacity, public service record, and electoral viability.

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Chinda, a prominent political figure and former Minority Leader of the House of Representatives, is expected to bring significant legislative experience and cross-party political influence into the APC’s campaign structure in Rivers State.

His emergence is already generating reactions within political circles, given his long-standing involvement in national politics and his recent alignment with stakeholders in the Rivers political realignment ahead of 2027.

Sources within the party described the outcome as a strategic move aimed at strengthening APC’s chances in Rivers State, where competition for the governorship seat is expected to be intense.

The screening committee noted that the decision reflects the party’s commitment to fielding candidates with broad acceptance and strong grassroots networks capable of mobilising support across local government areas.

With the declaration, attention now shifts to the party’s governorship primary, where Chinda is expected to formally secure the APC ticket amid growing interest from other aspirants and political blocs.

Political observers say the development could reshape the dynamics of the Rivers governorship race, especially as alliances continue to shift across party lines ahead of the 2027 elections.

The APC leadership is expected to issue further details on the timetable for the primary election and subsequent campaign arrangements in the coming days.

Chinda’s nomination marks a key milestone in the party’s preparations, as Rivers State remains one of the most closely watched battlegrounds in Nigeria’s upcoming electoral cycle.