The Rivers State Civil Society Organisation (RIVCSO) has rejected the nomination of Michael Odey, a native of Cross River State, as Chairman of the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC), describing the move as unlawful.
RIVCSO Chairman, Enefa Georgewill, in an interview with our correspondent, argued that the ongoing state of emergency declared in Rivers State is illegal, rendering all appointments under the current administration invalid—including that of the RSIEC chairman.
Georgewill emphasized that the organisation is prepared to pursue all legal avenues to challenge Odey’s nomination. He stressed, however, that RIVCSO has no objection to non-indigenes holding public office in the state, provided they live, do business, and pay taxes in Rivers State.
The group’s stance adds to the growing controversy surrounding political appointments amid the deepening crisis in the state.
