APC Primary Over, Greater Assignment Begins — Sen. Karimi
By Yahaya Idris
Senator Sunday Steve Karimi, representing Kogi West Senatorial District, has called for unity and reconciliation among members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) following the conclusion of the party’s primary election, declaring that there is “no victor, no vanquished.”
In a statement of appreciation issued on Sunday, Senator Karimi emphasized that political contests are temporary, while relationships, institutions, and the collective destiny of the people must remain paramount.
He expressed gratitude to Almighty God for granting him grace, strength, and wisdom throughout the political process.
The lawmaker also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his leadership and commitment to deepening democracy and strengthening the APC.
Karimi equally appreciated Kogi State Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo for his leadership in promoting unity and stability within the party in Kogi State. He also acknowledged the contributions of former Governor Yahaya Bello to the growth and consolidation of the APC in the state.
He further thanked the APC National Chairman, the National Working Committee, party leaders and stakeholders across Kogi West, including Hon. James Abiodun Faleke, local government party chairmen, ward executives, and loyal party members for their commitment and sacrifices during the exercise.
Senator Karimi paid tribute to fellow aspirants, including Distinguished Senator Smart Adeyemi, Hon. Samuel Bamidele Aro, Alhaji Tajudeen Bismillahi (Simidex), Hon. Folaranmi Onirinwa, Hon. Abubakar Ola Zakari, and Chief (Dr.) Doyin Eshanumi Ibikunle, praising their maturity, restraint, and dedication to the party despite differing political aspirations.
According to him, their conduct reaffirmed that leadership is ultimately defined by character rather than political outcomes.
Acknowledging that democratic contests often generate strong emotions, Karimi appealed for forgiveness from anyone who may have felt offended by his actions, words, or omissions during the primary process.
He said he had also forgiven all grievances directed at him, stressing that the future of the party is more important than past disagreements.
The senator urged party members to move beyond campaign rhetoric and embrace reconciliation, unity, and collective purpose ahead of future political engagements.
He stressed the need for APC members to close ranks, rebuild relationships where necessary, and present a united front to secure victory in upcoming elections while sustaining the unity and strength of the party.
“The primary has ended. The election before us demands one family, one vision, and one resolve,” he stated.
Karimi noted that beyond politics, the welfare and development of the people of Kogi West remain the ultimate responsibility of leadership.
He said political conversations should now shift from campaigns to development, from ambition to service, and from competition to collective progress.
Reaffirming his commitment to the people of Kogi West, the senator pledged to intensify efforts toward uniting all stakeholders, strengthening representation, and ensuring that every community benefits from the dividends of democracy.
He also promised to continue supporting all tiers of government in Kogi State in the pursuit of good governance, accelerated development, and improved living standards.
“Together, through unity of purpose, mutual respect, and selfless service, we shall build a stronger party, a more prosperous Kogi West, and a greater Kogi State,” he said.
Karimi concluded by reiterating that the APC primary produced neither winners nor losers, but rather strengthened a common cause for the future.
“There is neither victor nor vanquished. There is only one party, one people, and one common destiny. The primary is over; our greater assignment has begun,” he declared.
