Senate panel questions Rivers electoral commission chair nominee over Cross River origin

Michael Odey, the nominee for chairman of the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC), came under scrutiny at the senate on Tuesday over his state of origin.

Odey appeared before the senate ad hoc committee on emergency rule in Rivers state as part of his screening process.

During the session, members of the committee questioned the legality and appropriateness of appointing someone from Cross River state to head Rivers’ electoral commission.

Adamu Aliero, senator representing Kebbi central, who raised the issue, demanded clarification from the nominee.

“Most of the governors normally nominate indigenes of the state to serve as the chairman of the state electoral commission,” Aliero said.

“But, in this case, the nominee for the position of chairman is from Cross River, not Rivers state. I think we need clarification on that.”

In response, Odey confirmed that he hails from Cross River but insisted that his nomination does not violate any law.

“There is no provision in the constitution or the laws of Rivers state that bars someone from another state from heading the electoral commission,’ he said.

He added that his status as a non-indigene would serve as an advantage, allowing him to operate without local political interference.

“I have no political or personal ties in Rivers state. That will help me remain neutral and fair in discharging my duties,” he added.

The nominee pledged to prioritise transparency, maintain independence, and work with stakeholders to ensure timely and credible elections in the state.

While some lawmakers acknowledged his experience, others called for a review of the legal framework guiding such appointments.

Odey, a retired official of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), said he served for 35 years and supervised elections nationwide.

He described his track record as one of professionalism, neutrality, and due process.

President Bola Tinubu submitted Odey’s name, along with six others, to the senate for confirmation on June 12.

The president’s action had triggered angry reactions from Seriake Dickson, senator representing Bayelsa west.

Dickson said the communication from the president amounted to supporting what he described as “military rule” in Rivers state.