Nigeria Unheard Chorus: Rivers Voices Condemn Appointment of Non-Indigene Electoral Chair

On Arise News, former Rivers commissioner Lelonu Nwibubasa criticised the federal appointment of Michael Odey — a Cross River indigene — as chair of the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission. Calling the move “embarrassing” and “unconstitutional,” he described it as part of a growing pattern of imposition in the state. To many, it reflects an unheard chorus — citizens speaking in unity, but never truly consulted.

Key Points

• Tinubu appointed Cross River native Michael Odey as the Rivers electoral commission chair
• Guest Lelonu Nwibubasa on Arise News said the appointment lacked local consent
• He described it as “complete disrespect” to Rivers' political structure
• Critics link the move to broader concerns of federal dominance
• The pushback echoes Rivers’ long-standing defence of internal autonomy

An unheard chorus is not mere noise — it’s the warning hum of legitimacy withheld. When power skips dialogue, it risks discord disguised as order.

Have you ever heard many speak — and known those in charge heard none of it?

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Sources
Arise News (Lelonu Nwibubasa), Premium Times, Daily Post