The Senate has put a temporary hold on President Bola Tinubu’s nomination of Michael Ekpai as Chairman of the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC) due to concerns over his eligibility.
Ekpai, a retired INEC official from Cross River State, appeared before the Senate Ad-hoc Committee on Emergency Rule in Rivers State for screening on Tuesday.
During the screening, the lawmakers questioned whether a non-indigene could head a state electoral body.
Ekpaii confirmed he is a native of Cross River State but argued that his non-indigene status was not a disqualifying factor.
He also argued that his impartiality would be guaranteed due to his lack of affiliations in Rivers State.
The Senate committee raised questions about Ekpai’s eligibility due to his state of origin, with some lawmakers doubting whether a non-indigene could legally lead a state electoral commission.
Ekpai said, “There is no law that bars a non-indigene from serving as Chairman of a state electoral commission.”
He emphasised his extensive electoral experience, citing 35 years of service at INEC, and assured the committee of his ability to uphold the law and ensure broad stakeholder engagement.
Despite acknowledging Ekpai’s professional qualifications, the Senate committee insisted on verifying the legal basis for his appointment to ensure compliance with the Nigerian Constitution and Rivers State laws.
The nomination is happening amidst ongoing political tension in Rivers State, following a public fallout between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, which led to the suspension of the governor and installation of an administrator.
The Senate’s decision to temporarily halt Ekpai’s appointment highlighted the need for clarity on the legal provisions guiding such appointments and ensures that the nomination complied with constitutional requirements.
