Senate Approves Rivers Electoral Commission Chairman from Cross River Despite Strong Opposition

The Nigerian Senate has confirmed Michael Odey, a native of Cross River State, as the Chairman of the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC)—a decision that triggered heated debate and protests among lawmakers on Wednesday.

Odey’s confirmation came despite concerns raised over his non-indigene status and the already tense political atmosphere in Rivers State, which is currently under emergency rule. Critics argued the appointment was politically insensitive and overlooked qualified candidates from Rivers.

Why the Outrage?

Odey, during his screening last week, stated that the RSIEC law does not require the chairman to be an indigene of the state. But that explanation didn’t sit well with many senators, especially from the opposition.

Senator Abdul Ningi (PDP, Bauchi Central) led the charge, asking:

“Are there no people in Rivers anymore? Why is this necessary?”

Senator Ali Ndume (APC, Borno South) and Senate Minority Leader Abba Moro (PDP, Benue South) echoed similar concerns, emphasizing that local representation matters—especially in a state already grappling with political tension.

They pointed out that this was the second key appointment given to a non-Rivers indigene, following the earlier selection of Ibok Ekwe Ibas (also from Cross River) as Sole Administrator. The move, they feared, could further alienate the people of Rivers.

Support for the Appointment

However, not all lawmakers opposed the decision. Some, like Senator Tahir Monguno (APC, Borno North) and Deputy Senate President Jibrin Barau, argued that Nigerian law allows any citizen to serve anywhere, so long as they meet constitutional requirements.

“I can even serve as the Governor of Benue State if the people elect me,” Monguno quipped.

Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele, who chaired the ad hoc committee that reviewed the nomination, called for calm and said the appointment was aimed at ensuring neutrality in a politically sensitive climate. He emphasized that six of the seven nominees confirmed were from Rivers State.

“We reviewed the constitution and court rulings—there is no legal barrier to this appointment,” Bamidele said.

Final Confirmation

Despite the back-and-forth, the Senate proceeded with a voice vote and confirmed Odey as Chairman of RSIEC, along with the following six members:

Mr. Lezaasi Lenee Torbira

Professor Arthur Nwafor

Professor Godfrey Woke Mbudiogha

Professor Joyce Akaniwor

Dr. (Mrs.) Olive A. Bruce

Professor Chidi Halliday

The Senate also confirmed nominations for the Rivers State Local Government Civil Service Commission and the Rivers State Primary Healthcare Management Board.

What This Means

While legally justified, the decision has left a bitter taste among several lawmakers who believe political decisions in Rivers State are becoming increasingly centralized and disconnected from the people. The controversy underscores growing concerns over emergency rule governance and the need for inclusive, transparent leadership.

For many observers, this isn't just about one appointment—it’s about the perception of fairness and respect for local autonomy.