The Nigerian Senate on Wednesday confirmed the nomination of Dr. Michael Odey, a native of Cross River State, as Chairman of the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC), sparking heated debate and strong objections from several lawmakers. The confirmation, which came after a tense and sometimes rowdy plenary session, has drawn national attention to the delicate balance between constitutional legality and local political sensitivities.
The decision followed the presentation and consideration of a report by the Senate Ad-Hoc Committee on Emergency Rule in Rivers State, chaired by Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele. Odey’s confirmation was part of a broader approval process for nominees to several key agencies in Rivers State, including the Local Government Civil Service Commission and the Primary Healthcare Management Board.
A Controversial Choice: Odey’s Background and the Debate
Dr. Michael Odey, who hails from Cross River State—the same state as the current Sole Administrator of Rivers State, Ibok Ekwe Ibas—was first nominated and screened last week. He appeared before the ad hoc committee, where he defended his eligibility, stating:
“With utmost respect, I have gone through the RSIEC’s enabling law, and there is nothing that precludes the appointment of a non-indigene as chairman.”
Despite his qualifications and the legal backing for his appointment, the choice of a non-indigene to head a sensitive electoral commission in a state already under emergency rule was met with fierce resistance from several senators.
Senator Abdul Ningi (PDP, Bauchi Central), who led the charge against the confirmation, passionately argued that the move was politically insensitive and disregarded the feelings of the people of Rivers State.
“Are there no people in Rivers anymore? Why is this necessary?” he asked, adding, “Let it be on record that I, Senator Abdul Ningi, stood against this decision, even if it will not stop the confirmation.”
Senator Ali Ndume (APC, Borno South) echoed these concerns, stressing the importance of local representation in such a politically sensitive role.
“Yes, it may not be unconstitutional, but we must carry the people along. There are qualified individuals within Rivers State, and appointing from outside sends the wrong signal,” Ndume said.
Senate Minority Leader, Senator Abba Moro (PDP, Benue South), also opposed the nomination, noting that the state was already under emergency rule and required delicate handling.
“The earlier appointment of a sole administrator who is not from Rivers already raised concerns. This second appointment deepens the perception of insensitivity,” Moro said.
Defending the Appointment: Legal and Practical Arguments
Despite the strong objections, several senators and the committee leadership defended the appointment, citing constitutional provisions and judicial precedents.
Senate Chief Whip, Senator Tahir Monguno (APC, Borno North), argued that any qualified Nigerian can be appointed to serve in any part of the country.
“I can even serve as the Governor of Benue State if the people elect me,” Monguno said, referring to the constitutional guarantee of equal rights for all Nigerians.
Deputy Senate President, Jibrin Barau, supported the nomination, citing a similar instance in Abia State where the Head of Service hails from Edo.
“This is all politics. No law was breached,” Barau said.
Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele called for calm and stressed that the nominee met all constitutional and legal requirements.
“The Constitution is clear. Eligibility and disqualification are the key considerations. The nominee has met the eligibility criteria and is not disqualified by any law,” Bamidele said.
He added that out of the seven RSIEC nominees, six are from Rivers, noting that Odey’s appointment as chairman was intended to ensure neutrality in a politically charged environment.
“The committee considered both constitutional and judicial precedents. There is no provision in the RSIEC law or the Constitution that requires the chairman to be a registered voter or resident of Rivers State,” Bamidele explained.
The Confirmation Process and Broader Implications
After a lengthy and sometimes chaotic debate, the matter was put to a voice vote. The Senate confirmed Odey as chairman, alongside six other members: Mr. Lezaasi Lenee Torbira, Professor Arthur Nwafor, Professor Godfrey Woke Mbudiogha, Professor Joyce Akaniwor, Dr. (Mrs.) Olive A. Bruce, and Professor Chidi Halliday.
In addition to the RSIEC confirmation, the Senate also approved the nominations for the Rivers State Local Government Civil Service Commission and the Rivers State Primary Healthcare Management Board.
Despite the confirmation, discontent lingered among some senators and political observers, who viewed the developments in Rivers as part of a broader pattern of political manipulation under the guise of emergency governance. The controversy has reignited the debate over the federal character principle and the need for local representation in sensitive state positions.
Conclusion: A Test of National Unity and Local Sensitivities
The confirmation of Michael Odey as Chairman of the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission has highlighted the tension between constitutional legality and local political sensitivities in Nigeria. While the appointment is legally sound and supported by judicial precedent, the strong objections from lawmakers and the lingering discontent among the people of Rivers State underscore the importance of balancing national unity with respect for local identity and representation.
As Rivers State continues to navigate its political challenges under emergency rule, the appointment of a non-indigene to such a sensitive position will remain a contentious issue. The Senate’s decision is a reminder that, in a diverse federation like Nigeria, the path to true unity and progress must be paved with both legal clarity and genuine respect for local sensibilities.
