A political support group under the aegis of the Kogi Alliance for Renewed Hope (KARH) has criticised comments by Senator Sunday Steve Karimi, representing Kogi West, over his remarks on the recent endorsement rally for President Bola Tinubu in Lokoja.
In a statement on Monday signed by Toba Ogundele and Idris Abubakar, President and Secretary respectively, the group described Karimi’s comments as “disrespectful, misleading, and out of touch with the realities in Kogi State,” insisting that the people of the state remain firmly committed to supporting President Tinubu in 2027.
The group said contrary to Karimi’s claim that the people of Kogi were beingt “bullied” into supporting the President, the endorsement rally reflected the spontaneous and genuine will of Kogites who are pleased with Tinubu’s leadership and developmental strides across the country.
“The people of Kogi State do not need to be coerced to support President Tinubu — they are already convinced by his actions and performance. From infrastructural projects to appointments of deserving Kogi indigenes, Mr President has demonstrated inclusion, fairness, and capacity that speak louder than any campaign slogan,” the statement reads.
They said the endorsement rally in Lokoja, attended by grassroots party members and community leaders, was a show of unity and gratitude rather than political manipulation.
“It is disappointing that a senator who benefited from the goodwill of the same people will dismiss their enthusiasm as coercion. President Tinubu’s policies have increased federal allocations, improved rural infrastructure, and created opportunities for small businesses in Kogi and beyond. These are tangible benefits, not empty promises,” the statement said.
The group noted that the people of Kogi understand what leadership means and will not be swayed by those attempting to score cheap political points ahead of the 2027 general elections.
“Senator Karimi’s attempt to discredit a peaceful, democratic endorsement only exposes his detachment from the grassroots. From Lokoja to Okene, Kabba to Ankpa, the message is clear: Kogi stands solidly behind Presidentt Tinubu because they have seen the difference between rhetoric and results,” they said.
The forum urged political leaders from the state to put aside personal grievances and work in harmony to ensure that Kogi remains a stronghold of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2027.
“President Tinubu has shown unprecedented commitment to developing Kogi through infrastructural renewal and youth empowerment. The people of this state will willingly and proudly vote for him again in 2027 because his record speaks for itself,” the statement added.
