Senate Divided as Michael Odey Confirmed RSIEC Chair Amid Ethnic, Political Tensions

The Nigerian Senate confirmed Michael Odey as Chairman of the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC), sparking heated debate over his non-indigene status and the political sensitivity of Rivers State.

Tensions ran high in the Senate on Wednesday, June 26, 2025, as lawmakers engaged in a heated debate over the confirmation of Michael Odey, a Cross River State native, as Chairman of the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC). The controversial confirmation followed the submission of a report by the Senate Ad-Hoc Committee on Emergency Rule in Rivers State, chaired by Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele.

Odey’s nomination stirred strong resistance from lawmakers across party lines, particularly due to the ethnic and political volatility currently gripping Rivers State. Critics of the appointment cited Odey’s status as a non-indigene as potentially inflammatory in a state already navigating fragile political terrain.

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Senators Question Legitimacy and Wisdom of Non-Indigene Appointment

Senator Abdul Ningi (PDP, Bauchi Central) led the opposition, voicing skepticism over the decision to assign a non-Rivers native to oversee elections in such a politically sensitive state.

“Are there no people in Rivers anymore?” Ningi asked pointedly during the session. “Let it be on record that I, Senator Abdul Ningi, stood against this decision.”

Backing him, Senator Ali Ndume (APC, Borno South) warned that the choice might be seen as an affront to the local populace, noting that Rivers has no shortage of competent and qualified individuals who understand the state’s unique dynamics. “This sends the wrong message,” Ndume emphasized.

Senate Minority Leader Abba Moro (PDP, Benue South) also expressed reservations, calling for more deliberate, locally-sensitive approaches to appointments in regions facing political instability.

Legal vs. Political Arguments: Senate Split Over Precedents and Fairness

Despite the criticisms, several senators rose in defense of the nomination, highlighting the legality and constitutionality of appointing any qualified Nigerian to public office regardless of state of origin.

Senate Chief Whip Tahir Monguno (APC, Borno North) countered the objections with a firm declaration of national unity. “I can be governor of Benue if the people elect me,” Monguno stated, emphasizing that public service should transcend ethnic lines.

Echoing this sentiment, Deputy Senate President Jibrin Barau pointed out that similar appointments have taken place in other states without causing major backlash. According to Barau, the focus should be on competence and neutrality, especially in sensitive electoral roles.

Bamidele: Appointment Meant to Ensure Neutrality

Chairman of the Ad-Hoc Committee, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, offered further clarification. He stated that six of the seven appointees to the RSIEC were Rivers State indigenes, with Odey being the sole exception.

Bamidele explained that Odey’s inclusion was deliberate, intended to bring neutrality to the commission amid the political turbulence currently destabilizing the state’s governance structures. “Odey met all legal and constitutional requirements,” Bamidele added, emphasizing that fairness and impartiality were critical at this juncture.

The Senate, after a voice vote, confirmed Michael Odey as RSIEC Chairman alongside six other nominees:

• Lezaasi Lenee Torbira
• Professor Arthur Nwafor
• Professor Godfrey Woke Mbudiogha
• Professor Joyce Akaniwor
• Dr. Olive Bruce
• Professor Chidi Halliday

Other Confirmations: Civil Service and Healthcare Boards

In addition to RSIEC, the Senate also confirmed nominations to key administrative positions in Rivers State. These included:

• Members of the Rivers State Local Government Civil Service Commission
• Members of the Rivers State Primary Healthcare Management Board

These confirmations are expected to play crucial roles in stabilizing administrative functions across the state’s local government system and healthcare delivery networks, respectively.

Broader Implications for Federal Appointments and National Unity

The debate around Odey’s appointment reflects deeper undercurrents in Nigeria’s political structure—particularly the tension between federal inclusivity and state autonomy. While the Nigerian Constitution allows for national integration and service regardless of ethnic origin, politically charged environments often challenge these ideals.

With Rivers State currently experiencing governance-related disruptions and high political polarization, the decision to bring in an external figure to head its electoral commission is both symbolic and strategic. Supporters argue it is a bold step toward neutrality, while critics fear it may ignite further distrust and political agitation.

As Odey assumes office alongside his team, the success or failure of their mandate will likely influence future federal appointments in other politically tense regions across the country.