BY BOLAJI AFOLABI
For over two years, the Peoples Democratic Party, (PDP), has gone through different stages of crisis and contestations. In the process, the party has lost members to the ruling All Progressives Congress, (APC), and a few others. With the Court of Appeal giving judicial recognition to the Abdulrahman Mohammed-led Caretaker National Working Committee, (CNWC),
many members of the party described it as the silver lining needed to revive it from the near-prostrate state. Determined to meet the guidelines of the Independent National Electoral Commission, (INEC), for next year’s General Elections, the CNWC constituted the Central, and other Committees for the party’s national convention scheduled to hold this weekend, in Abuja. For many members of the party, the quality and calibre of those that made the list was inspiring. Others believe that the pedigree and antecedents of the over 500 members that will midwife the party’s national convention evidenced that the PDP remains relevant in Nigeria’s political development.
So, last Saturday, hours to the commencement of the Inauguration of the national convention committees, activities and movements in and around a major facility in the Utako District of Abuja was huge. Vehicular and mass movement of people more than doubled. The atmosphere within the hall was electrifying and convivial, as members engaged in serial hand-slaps, back-slaps, hugging, and spontaneous embrace. Former Governors, past Ministers, Legislators, and many others moved around to serenade the evening, and, perhaps, the opportunity to reboot the party. The collection of songs perfectly dished by the Disc Jockey added the necessary verve, gusto, and excitement among members; who have not had an opportunity of being together in a long while.
In the midst of the vociferous atmosphere, Kingsley Chinda, the subject of this Tribute emerged. The Rivers State-born politician and lawyer, who is the Leader of the Minority Caucus in Nigeria’s House of Representatives walked in quietly, and took a seat at the rear of the crowded but lively hall. With no retinue of aides, escorts, and security details, his arrival was barely noticed and innocuous. That is vintage Chinda, who prefers to operate in the background, and avoids undue attention. Indeed, it took the prodding and persistence of Hon. Jones Onyeriri; a former colleague, and PDP’s Deputy Governorship candidate in Imo State for Chinda to leave the “back seat” when informed a few of his friends including Hons. TeeJay Yusuf, and Rimamnde Shawulu were somewhere further within the hall.
Perhaps, as a result of his demeanor and carriage which looked ordinary, many people didn’t have an idea that their party’s number two person in the Legislative arm of government was around. Literally, the cat was left out of the bag when the MC, Ms. Chinwe Nnorom, PDP’s Director of Publicity invited Chinda for a goodwill message. Surprised, with this shocking discovery, the reactions of the “back-benchers” through applause and cheeres were palpable. Chief Davidson Ndubuisi exclaimed, “I never knew the man who sat beside me, and even greeted me firstly was an important person in Nigeria.” Hajiya Fatima Usman confessed that, “I’m not happy about missing the opportunity of having interaction with someone I have long desired to meet; this is painful.” Princess Anita Olateru sounded spiritual, “this confirms the saying that Angels, in human form comes around but one may not know. The man greeted me, sat a few seats away, and yet I didn’t know he was such a powerful person in government.”
This is an encapsulation of who Chinda is. Either naturally or deliberately, he, regularly plays down his position, influence, and personality. According to those close to him, he lives a non-complicated and well-cultured life, anchored on hard work, sincerity, and moderation. His commitment to friendship, relationship, and group interest remains unequivocal. Described as gentle and genial, Chinda is a perfect specimen of humility and humanity. In an interaction with the writer, Chinda declared that, “life and living is better when you remain true, real to yourself and conscience; avoid complications by being simple because whatever position you occupy, and wherever you are is ephemeral.”
Chinda, a former Commissioner for Environment in Rivers State has emerged as a trailblazer in Nigeria’s Legislature. He achieved unprecedented milestones by being elected in 2023 – the fourth consecutive time – to represent the Obio-Akpor federal constituency. That his constituents have consistently invested their respective electoral franchise in him as their representative is an eloquent statement of recognition, acceptance, and performances. True to his burning passion and unapologetic commitment to development, Chinda, in diverse ways has continued to impact on his constituents. His strides in infrastructural development, roads construction, medical and healthcare services, and education are evident across the entire 17 Wards in the Obio-Akpor federal constituency. Not forgetting agriculture, power, skill development, sports, financial support, and other numerous empowerment programmes for personal growth of the constituents and community development.
Aware of his contributions to national development, particularly, the deepening of legislative actions in the 7th to 9th Assembly where he was at various times Deputy Chairman, Committee on Customs; Chairman, Public Accounts Committee; and Leader of the PDP Caucus, he was unanimously elected as the Minority Leader of the 10th Assembly of the House of Representatives. In this capacity, Chinda, who remains limpid in matters of good governance, general well-being of the people, and legislative resourcefulness, prefers collegiate leadership. This novel, and unique style, which is a clear departure from what existed before is an all-embracing, all-inclusive leadership model in managing the affairs of the Minority Caucus.
As a fourth-termer in the House of Representatives; famously called “House of the Nigerian people” Chinda’s profound understanding of legislative ethos, nuances, issues, and practices has impacted contributions to national development. No doubt, his character, capacity, and competence have made him an invaluable asset to the Legislature, just as his insightful advocacy and robust commentaries have solidified his status as one of the most respected members of the National Assembly. A strong advocate for transparent and accountable governance, Chinda has been forthright and consistent in every cause that will improve the general well-being of all Nigerians; particularly those in the lower rungs.
On the Diamond Jubilee anniversary of a legislative colossus whose life and politics exemplifies service; in its entirety, the writer prays that his trajectories will continue to inspire and impact the people. As he climbs the 6th Floor, may he continue to leave indelible marks on
the path towards the resolve of Nigerians to have a progressive, prosperous, and fruitful nation.
* BOLAJI AFOLABI; a Development Communications specialist was with the Office of Public Affairs, The Presidency, Abuja.