The Movement for the Emancipation of Kogi State (MEKSTA) has defended Senator Sunday Karimi’s recent interventions across Kogi State, describing them as acts of compassion aligned with the broader vision of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope agenda.
In a statement, the group referenced a recent visit by a Yagba Federal Constituency delegation to Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo.
The delegation, led by Chief Henry Oluseyi Omotosho and Hon. Bode Kayode, had visited to appreciate the governor for reappointing Luqman Usman Adedayo as part-time Chairman of the Kogi State Pensions Board. They also pledged continued support for the administration and appealed for more appointments and infrastructure for their area.
According to MEKSTA, the meeting reportedly shifted focus when Governor Ododo raised concerns about Senator Karimi’s N300 million scholarship scheme, which was extended beyond Kogi West to beneficiaries across the three senatorial districts. The governor was also said to have questioned the senator’s distribution of Ramadan palliatives to communities outside his constituency.
Responding, MEKSTA argued that Karimi’s actions reflect inclusiveness and humanitarian commitment rather than political overreach. The group noted that while the senator’s 2025 bursary programme was limited to Kogi West, the 2026 edition was expanded in line with the Renewed Hope philosophy to accommodate beneficiaries statewide.
The group further highlighted Karimi’s intervention in supporting 3,000 students across the 21 local government areas with N100,000 each to assist with school fees and examination costs. It contrasted this with what it described as unfulfilled promises by the state government to cover WAEC and JAMB fees for students.
MEKSTA also raised concerns over alleged interference in local affairs in Egbe, Karimi’s hometown, accusing the state government of backing dissenting traditional elements and contributing to tensions within the community. The group cited the arrest and detention of some local chiefs, describing the charges against them as unfounded.
Reaffirming its position, MEKSTA maintained that Senator Karimi remains focused on service to his constituents while extending goodwill across the state. It dismissed claims of political ambition beyond his mandate, insisting that his actions are driven by a genuine desire to improve lives.
The group concluded that Karimi’s approach reflects the leadership ideals of President Tinubu, emphasizing inclusiveness, grassroots engagement, and people-oriented governance.
