Sen. Sunday Steve Karimi, representing Kogi West Senatorial District, has called on party members to set aside the rivalries of the recently concluded primary election and unite behind a common purpose ahead of the general election.
In a statement of appreciation issued on Sunday, the Senator declared that “there is neither victor nor vanquished,” stressing that the party’s primary contest had ended and a greater assignment of unity and service to the people now beckons.
Senator Karimi began by extending appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his leadership and commitment to strengthening the party and Nigeria’s democracy. He also expressed gratitude to Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo for his role in uniting and stabilising the party in Kogi State, and commended the immediate past Governor, Alhaji Yahaya Bello, for his sustained contributions to the party’s growth.
He further appreciated the National Chairman, the National Working Committee, and party leaders and stakeholders across Kogi West, including Hon. James Abiodun Faleke, as well as Local Government Party Chairmen, Ward Executives, and party members for their commitment throughout the process.
The Senator paid special tribute to his co-contestants in the primary — Senator Smart Adeyemi, Hon. Samuel Bamidele Aro, Alhaji Tajudeen Bismillahi (Simidex), Hon. Folaranmi Onirinwa, Hon. Abubakar Ola Zakari, and Chief (Dr.) Doyin Eshanumi Ibikunle — describing their maturity and restraint as a reaffirmation that leadership is measured by character rather than outcomes alone.
Acknowledging that political contests often stir strong emotions, Senator Karimi apologised for any offence caused by his words, actions, or omissions, or those of his associates, during the primary. He said he had equally forgiven every misunderstanding directed at him, noting that the party’s future mattered more than yesterday’s disagreements.
He urged party members to shift from the rhetoric of the primary to a language of reconciliation, unity, and shared purpose, stressing the need to close ranks and present a united front for the task ahead, including securing victory for President Tinubu’s re-election bid.
Beyond politics, Senator Karimi emphasised that the greatest obligation of party leaders now lies with the people of Kogi West, calling for a shift in focus from campaigns to development and from competition to collective community advancement.
Reaffirming his commitment as Senator, Karimi pledged to redouble his efforts towards uniting the people of his district, carrying every stakeholder along, and ensuring no community is left behind in the pursuit of progress. He also pledged his support to all tiers of government in Kogi State in delivering good governance and improving citizens’ welfare.
He concluded by describing the party as “one party, one people and one common destiny,” declaring that while the primary is over, a greater assignment of unity and service has now begun.
