There was a commission in the Nigerian Senate on Wednesday over the submission and consideration of the ad-hoc committee report on the emergency rule in Rivers State, especially pertaining to the screening and approval of the Chairman of the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission, RSIEC.
The session became rowdy after the senators contended on the merit of nominating a non-indigene, Michael Odey, as Chairman of RSIEC, an appointment that drew strong objections from several opposition lawmakers.
Speaking, the Senate minority leader, Abba Moro (Benue South) said he was disappointed, noting that the earlier appointment of a sole administrator, also not from Rivers, had already raised concerns, and that the second appointment of a person from Cross River State, only deepened the lack of ethics.
Morro was supported by Senator Abdul Ningi (Bauchi Central), who questioned the reason for appointing an outsider to oversee elections in Rivers State.
Weighing into the issue, Senator Ali Ndume (Borno South) referenced the federal character principle, urging the Senate to consider local sensibilities.
“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," he said.
On his part, the Senate Chief Whip, Tahir Monguno, defended the nomination, saying that no constitutional infraction had occurred.
Meanwhile, Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele, who also chairs the Ad-Hoc Committee on Rivers State Emergency Rule, called for calm, urging his colleagues to treat the matter based on constitutional merit rather than political sentiment.
“This is not a matter for grandstanding or politicisation. The Constitution is clear, eligibility and qualification are the key criteria. The nominee has met both even if he is not from Rivers State.
“Out of the seven nominees, six are from Rivers. This appointment ensures neutrality and transparency in a highly sensitive political environment,” he added.
According to him, the committee carried out due diligence and consulted stakeholders before making its recommendations.
Despite the friction, when put to a voice vote, an overwhelming majority adopted the report, confirming the appointment of the chairman and members of RSIEC.