By Idris Ibrahim
The attention of Kogi Progressive Stakeholders Forum (KPSF) has been drawn to a publication by an online platform, Ebira Reporters, titled “Council Chairmen, APC Leaders in Kogi West Reject Karimi’s 2027 Ticket.” Ordinarily, such a report would not merit a response, given its glaring bias and questionable intent. However, in the interest of truth, fairness, and the integrity of democratic discourse, it has become necessary to set the record straight.
From the onset, the publication bears all the hallmarks of a politically motivated narrative—one designed not to inform, but to mislead. It is unfortunate that a platform, widely perceived as advancing sectional interests, would descend into the arena of propaganda in a bid to discredit a performing senator whose record continues to speak louder than contrived allegations.
Senator Sunday Karimi, representing Kogi West Senatorial District, did not emerge through imposition but through a democratic mandate freely given by the people in the 2023 general elections. That mandate was anchored on trust, credibility, and a track record of service—values he has continued to uphold in office.
The claims of “loss of confidence” and “weak grassroots engagement” are, at best, exaggerated and, at worst, deliberately misleading. Across the seven local government areas of Kogi West, Senator Karimi’s presence is not only felt but acknowledged. From empowerment initiatives to educational support schemes, infrastructure facilitation, and consistent interface with constituents, the senator has maintained a visible and impactful connection with the grassroots.
It is also curious that critics would allege the absence of a functional constituency structure when numerous channels of engagement—both formal and informal—exist to bridge communication between the senator and his people. Representation in a modern democracy transcends physical offices; it is measured by responsiveness, accessibility, and tangible outcomes.
On legislative performance, the attempt to diminish Senator Karimi’s contributions at the National Assembly does not stand up to scrutiny. Like many lawmakers focused on long-term impact, his efforts span committee engagements, policy advocacy, and collaborative interventions that may not always make sensational headlines but nonetheless contribute to national development and, by extension, benefit Kogi West.
What is most revealing, however, is the timing and tone of the so-called press conference. Coming barely midway into the senator’s tenure, it raises legitimate questions about the motives behind such orchestrated dissent. Are these truly the voices of concerned stakeholders, or the echoes of political actors unsettled by a rising profile and growing acceptance?
Democracy thrives on open competition, and Senator Karimi has never shied away from that principle. The call for a transparent primary process is, therefore, not new—it is a fundamental tenet of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and one that the senator fully supports. What must be resisted, however, is the attempt to predetermine outcomes through campaigns of calumny.
It is equally important to remind the public that political leadership is not a popularity contest measured by press statements but a responsibility evaluated through service delivery and public trust. The people of Kogi West remain the ultimate arbiters, and their verdict cannot be substituted by a gathering of a few individuals, regardless of their titles.
Furthermore, the sweeping endorsement of the current administrations of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo within the same breath as the criticism of Senator Karimi underscores the political undertone of the entire exercise. Loyalty to party leadership should not be weaponised against fellow party members, especially those with proven electoral value.
The Kogi West Senatorial District has, over the years, demonstrated political sophistication and independence of thought. Attempts to manipulate public perception through selective narratives will not only fail but also undermine the unity such critics claim to seek.
In conclusion, while dissent remains a legitimate component of democratic engagement, it must be grounded in truth and sincerity. Senator Sunday Karimi remains focused on delivering the dividends of democracy to his constituents, undistracted by the noise of politically engineered opposition.
The people of Kogi West deserve constructive dialogue, not distortion; progress, not propaganda. And as 2027 approaches, it is they—not sponsored headlines—who will ultimately decide the path forward.
