Smart Adeyemi Bows Out of Kogi West Senate Race, Emotional Message to Supporters Stirs Reactions
By Yahaya Idris
There was an emotional twist in the race for the Kogi West Senatorial seat on Sunday as former senator, Smart Adeyemi, formally announced his withdrawal from the contest, urging his supporters to put the unity and stability of the ruling party above personal ambition.
The three-term lawmaker, in a lengthy and heartfelt statement personally signed and made available to journalists in Lokoja, said his decision followed extensive consultations with stakeholders across Kogi West and was taken in the “overall interest of unity, peace and victory” for the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Adeyemi revealed that influential leaders from the district, after a series of harmonisation meetings and consultations, resolved to support the re-election bid of Sunday Karimi as part of a political arrangement aimed at preserving peace and cohesion within the party.
Though he noted that he remained the only aspirant from his federal constituency, the former senator said he chose sacrifice over confrontation in order to protect the future of the APC in Kogi State.
According to him, politics should never be driven by bitterness, hatred or personal interests, but by service to humanity and the protection of the people’s welfare.
“After careful consultations and consideration of all submissions made, I have resolved to accept the collective position of stakeholders,” he stated.
“Although I remain the sole aspirant from my own federal constituency, I have decided to withdraw from the race in the overriding interest of our great party, the APC, so as to strengthen unity, cohesion and oneness within Kogi State.”
In one of the most emotional parts of the statement, Adeyemi appealed passionately to his loyalists, political associates and supporters not to see his withdrawal as defeat, but as a necessary sacrifice for peace and stability.
Quoting civil rights icon, Martin Luther King Jr., he said: “The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands at moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy.”
The former senator stressed that tomorrow remains bright for everyone, insisting that destiny is ultimately determined by God.
“Tomorrow still lies ahead of all of us, and we must always remember that the hand of God ultimately guides the affairs of men,” he said.
Adeyemi also used the opportunity to throw his weight behind President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, expressing confidence in the administration’s economic reforms despite the current hardship facing many Nigerians.u
He described Tinubu as a courageous leader committed to rebuilding Nigeria’s economy through bold reforms, particularly the removal of fuel subsidy.
“I am fully convinced beyond every reasonable doubt that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu means well for Nigeria and Nigerians,” he stated.
“While some of the economic policies may appear challenging in the short term, they are necessary reforms designed to secure long-term growth, stability and prosperity for our nation.”
The former lawmaker further praised Usman Ododo for ongoing infrastructural projects in Kogi State, especially the proposed airport project, which he described as visionary and capable of transforming the state’s economy.
He equally commended former governor Yahaya Adoza Bello for what he called his unwavering commitment to the progress and stability of the APC.
Adeyemi concluded by thanking supporters across Kogi State and beyond for standing with him throughout his political journey, urging them to remain steadfast and continue supporting the APC ahead of future elections.
His withdrawal is already generating intense political reactions across Kogi West, with many supporters expressing shock and mixed emotions over the unexpected decision.
