Abuja, Nigeria — June 5, 2025
In a heated and contentious session, the Nigerian Senate on Wednesday confirmed Dr. Michael Ekpai Odey, a nominee from Cross River State, as Chairman of the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC), sparking strong opposition over his non-indigene status.
The confirmation followed the adoption of a report by the Senate Ad-Hoc Committee on Emergency Rule in Rivers State, led by Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele (APC, Ekiti Central). The Senate also confirmed nominees to several other state boards.
Opposition to Odey’s Appointment
Lawmakers including Senator Abdul Ningi (PDP, Bauchi Central) and Senator Abba Moro (PDP, Benue South) argued that appointing a non-Rivers indigene to such a politically sensitive position undermines public trust and violates the federal character principle. Senator Ali Ndume (APC, Borno South) also joined the dissent.
Defense of the Nomination
Supporters of the nomination, led by Senate Chief Whip Tahir Monguno and Committee Chairman Bamidele, defended the move as constitutionally valid. Bamidele noted that six of the seven RSIEC nominees are Rivers indigenes, and Odey’s inclusion was aimed at ensuring neutrality and public confidence in the electoral body.
“There was no petition or security concern raised against any nominee,” Bamidele said, urging focus on constitutional criteria rather than state of origin.
Confirmed Appointments
Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC)
- Chairman: Dr. Michael Ekpai Odey
- Members: Mr. Lezaasi Lenee Torbira, Prof. Arthur Nwafor, Prof. Godfrey Mbudiogha, Prof. Joyce Akaniwor, Dr. Olive Bruce, Prof. Chidi Halliday
Rivers State Civil Service Commission
- Chairman: Dr. Barikor Livinus Baribuma
- Members: Amb. Lot Peter Egopija, Ms. Maeve Ere-Bestman, Mrs. Joy Obiaju, Mrs. Charity Lloyd Harry
Rivers Local Government Civil Service Commission
- Chairman: Mr. Israel Amadi
- Members: Mr. Linus Nwandem, Christabel George-Didia, Dr. Tonye Willie-Pepple, Mr. Richard Ewoh, Rear Admiral Emmanuel Ofik (Rtd), Mr. Sammy Apiafi
Rivers State Primary Health Care Management Board
- Chairman: Dr. Dawari George
- Executive Director: Dr. Chituru Adiele
- Members: Prof. Kaladada Korubp, Dr. Benjamin Osaro, Mrs. Anne Obomanu, Prof. Grace Bassey, Dr. Mike Alagala, Mr. Sunday Asetubobe
Other Ministry Representatives Confirmed
- Health: Mr. Dagogo Alabo
- Women’s Affairs: Ms. Carmelita Ekenyi Agborubere
- Finance: Mr. James Ngochindo Epobari
- ALGON: Mr. Clifford Paul
- Local Govt Commission: Mr. Luke Usang
- Justice: Mr. Romeo Osima Isokariari
Nominee Victoria Poma Samuel was stood down for absence during screening.
