By Yekini Jimoh
The emergence of Senator Sunday Steve Karimi as the All Progressives Congress (APC) senatorial candidate for Kogi West ahead of the 2027 general elections has further strengthened his political influence across the district and reaffirmed his standing within the ruling party.
Karimi, who currently represents Kogi West in the Senate, secured the APC ticket after a keenly contested primary election that attracted several notable aspirants within the district.
His victory has been widely described by party faithful and political observers as a reflection of his growing grassroots acceptance, legislative performance, and strategic political alliances within the APC.
The APC primary in Kogi West was one of the most closely watched contests in the state, particularly following intense political consultations and internal debates over consensus arrangements.
Reports had earlier indicated disagreements among stakeholders over attempts to endorse another aspirant as consensus candidate, a move strongly resisted by Karimi’s supporters and political groups loyal to the senator.
Despite the political tension that preceded the primary, Karimi eventually emerged victorious, reinforcing his dominance in the district and positioning himself for a second term bid in the National Assembly.
Party leaders and supporters across Kogi West have since rallied behind his candidacy, describing him as a unifying figure capable of sustaining the APC’s electoral strength in the senatorial district.
Political analysts believe Karimi’s emergence was largely influenced by his performance since assuming office in 2023.
The senator has consistently projected himself as an advocate for infrastructure development, security enhancement, and constituency empowerment across the seven local government areas of Kogi West.
His interventions in water projects, security initiatives, and legislative contributions have earned him significant political goodwill among many constituents.
One of the major highlights of his representation has been the construction and donation of a military base in Yagba West to support security operations against criminal activities in the area.
He has also facilitated several solar-powered borehole projects and community development initiatives aimed at improving rural livelihoods within the district.
Karimi’s emergence also underscores the continuing influence of the APC leadership structure in Kogi State under Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo and former Governor Yahaya Bello.
The party leadership was said to have played a significant role in ensuring a relatively peaceful primary process while promoting unity among party stakeholders.
Following his victory, Senator Karimi expressed gratitude to APC leaders, delegates, women groups, youths, and supporters across Kogi West for the confidence reposed in him. He described the victory as both an honour and a responsibility, pledging to continue working for the progress and development of the district.
His emergence has already generated renewed momentum within APC ranks in Kogi West, with supporters expressing optimism that the senator’s candidacy would strengthen the party’s chances in the 2027 general elections.
Many party stakeholders have also called on aggrieved aspirants and supporters to close ranks and work together in the interest of party unity and electoral success.
