By Musa Ahmad.
The political atmosphere within the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Lokoja took a fresh turn on Friday as party founding fathers rose in defence of Senator Sunday Karimi, dismissing reports of a purported vote of no confidence against him.
In a strongly worded statement signed by Hon. Ibrahim Adamu and made available to newsmen in Lokoja, the party elders described the claim as misleading and the handiwork of “sponsored agents” bent on creating disunity within the party ahead of the 2027 general elections.
According to the statement, no legitimate stakeholders’ meeting was convened where such a decision was reached, insisting that the narrative being circulated does not reflect the position of core APC members in Lokoja. The group maintained that any attempt to undermine Senator Karimi’s standing through what they termed “fabricated resolutions” would not stand the test of time.
The signatories, who identified themselves as founding members of the APC in the area, reaffirmed their support for the senator, expressing confidence in his leadership and political relevance. They argued that Senator Karimi remains a key figure within the party’s structure in Kogi West and is well-positioned to secure a second term in office.
Describing the alleged vote of no confidence as a “desperate political tactic,” the group warned against actions capable of heating up the polity unnecessarily. They urged party members to remain focused on unity and collective progress rather than engaging in divisive activities.
“The so-called vote of no confidence is null and void. It is a creation of individuals who neither represent the party structure nor the will of the people,” the statement read in part.
The development highlights growing political manoeuvring within the APC as the 2027 elections draw closer. While internal contestations are not unusual, the public nature of the disagreement points to deeper undercurrents within the party’s local hierarchy.
Observers noted that such exchanges, if not carefully managed, could widen internal rifts. However, they also reflect the intensity of political interest surrounding the Kogi West senatorial seat, where various actors are positioning themselves for relevance.
For Senator Karimi, the endorsement by APC founding fathers in Lokoja may serve as a boost amid the unfolding controversy. Yet, as the political season gradually gathers pace, the interplay between party loyalty, performance, and public perception will ultimately shape the trajectory of the contest.
As it stands, the message from the APC elders is clear: attempts to derail Senator Karimi’s second-term ambition through what they describe as sponsored narratives will not succeed. Whether this show of support translates into broader consensus within the party remains to be seen.
