There was a heated uproar on the Senate floor following the presentation and review of the ad-hoc committee’s report on the emergency rule in Rivers State, specifically concerning the screening and approval of the Chairman of the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC).Tensions rose as lawmakers debated the nomination of Michael Odey, a non-indigene, for the RSIEC chairmanship. 

Galaxy Television reports that this appointment sparked strong opposition from several minority party members.Senate Minority Leader Abba Moro and two other Senators voiced their disappointment, highlighting that the earlier appointment of a sole administrator also not from Rivers State had already generated controversy. 

On the other hand, Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele and Chief Whip Senator Tahir Monguno defended the nomination, insisting that no constitutional violations had occurred. Despite the disagreements, the report was overwhelmingly adopted by voice vote, confirming the appointment of the RSIEC chairman and members.