Michael Ekpai, a retired official of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) from Cross River State, appeared before the Senate Ad-hoc Committee on Emergency Rule in Rivers State for screening on June 17, 2025. Ekpai is nominated to head the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC), but his eligibility has been questioned due to his non-indigene status.
Senators raised constitutional concerns about whether a non-indigene can legally head a state electoral body. They grilled Ekpai over his eligibility, given that he hails from a different state than the one he is nominated to serve. Ekpai, however, argued that his lack of ties to Rivers State would actually enable him to remain impartial in his decision-making.
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With 35 years of experience at INEC, Ekpai highlighted his impressive background in conducting multiple elections and maintaining a record of integrity and adherence to due process. He emphasized that no law prohibits a non-indigene from serving as RSIEC Chairman, and he pledged to uphold the law, respect electoral timelines, and engage all stakeholders in the state’s democratic process.
Despite Ekpai’s qualifications and experience, the Senate committee expressed concerns about the potential implications of appointing a non-indigene to head RSIEC. They decided to review the legal provisions governing such appointments to ensure compliance with both the Nigerian Constitution and the laws of Rivers State.
