The Senate has confirmed Michael Odey as Chairman of the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC) despite heated opposition over his non-indigene status.
Tensions flared during the consideration of the Ad-Hoc Committee’s report on the Rivers State emergency rule, as lawmakers questioned the decision to nominate someone from Cross River State to oversee elections in Rivers.
Senate Minority Leader Abba Moro criticized the move, calling it ethically questionable, especially following the earlier appointment of a non-Rivers sole administrator. He was backed by Senators Abdul Ningi and Ali Ndume, who emphasized the need to respect federal character and local representation.
“It may not be unconstitutional, but it sends the wrong signal,” Ndume warned.
However, Senate Chief Whip Tahir Monguno and Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele defended the nomination. Bamidele clarified that six out of seven RSIEC nominees are from Rivers, and Odey’s inclusion was meant to bring neutrality to a politically sensitive state.
“This is about merit and constitutional qualification, not sentiment,” Bamidele said.
In the end, despite the debate, a voice vote saw majority support, and the Senate confirmed the appointment of Odey and other RSIEC members.
