Michael Ekpai, nominated to lead the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC), faced questions from the Senate over his state of origin during a screening session in Abuja.
Ekpai, a retired official of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), appeared before the Senate Ad-hoc Committee on Emergency Rule in Rivers State.
Lawmakers raised concerns about his eligibility, noting that he is originally from Cross River State and not Rivers State.
This led to a debate about whether someone from another state can be appointed to head a state electoral commission.
The nominee explained that while he is not an indigene of Rivers, there is no legal rule that stops him from serving in that position.
He also said that being an outsider could help him remain neutral in handling elections in the state.
Senators acknowledged his long experience in electoral matters and his clean record during his 35-year career with INEC.
However, they said they would check the relevant laws in both the Nigerian Constitution and those of Rivers State to determine if the appointment meets all requirements.
President Bola Tinubu had submitted Ekpai’s name along with six others to the Senate for confirmation last week.
The committee has not yet made a final decision on his appointment, as legal consultations are still ongoing.
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