The recent appointment of Dr. Michael Ekpai Odey, a native of Cross River State, as Chairman of the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC) by the Sole Administrator, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (also from Cross River), continues to stir political unrest and public outcry across Rivers State.
The decision, ratified by President Bola Tinubu and read before the National Assembly, has drawn sharp criticism from political stakeholders, civil society groups, and concerned citizens who argue that the move undermines local representation and sets a troubling precedent.
Dr. Odey’s nomination was met with resistance during Senate screening, where lawmakers questioned the legality and propriety of appointing a non-indigene to head a state electoral body. Critics argue that such a sensitive role should be reserved for a qualified Rivers indigene to ensure transparency, accountability, and public trust in the electoral process.
Former Rivers State Commissioner Lelonu Nwibubasa described the appointment as “an embarrassing moment” and a “complete show of disrespect” to the people of Rivers State. He accused the federal government of systematically dismantling local political structures and replacing them with “aliens.”