By joshua 
Doing the Needful for Tinubu, Karimi
By Pastor Stanley Ajileye
The return of Steve Sunday Karimi to the Senate is far more than a personal political contest; it is a defining test of the political maturity, collective resolve, and readiness of the people of Kogi West Senatorial District to assert equity and justice within the political structure of Kogi State. Political moments such as this do not come often. When they do, they demand clarity of purpose and unity of action.
Senator Karimi plays politics without pretense. From the outset, he has spoken plainly and consistently on the question of power equity in Kogi State. He did not calculate how many forces might align against him, nor did he temper his convictions to curry favor with entrenched interests. In a political culture where silence is often rewarded and convenience mistaken for wisdom, Karimi chose courage. Over time, he has emerged as the most consistent, most vocal, and most principled advocate of fairness and inclusion in the state’s political conversation. Such consistency is rare, and it deserves recognition through renewed mandate.
Importantly, the decision regarding his reelection lies squarely with the people of Kogi West. This fact alone elevates the coming contest beyond routine politics. It presents a rare opportunity to make a clear and unmistakable statement, one that aligns regional justice with national stability. That opportunity coincides directly with the reelection bid of our President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Senator Karimi has distinguished himself as the strongest and most committed proponent of President Tinubu’s second-term project in Kogi State. His support has been neither symbolic nor transactional; it has been strategic, visible, and deeply rooted in conviction. His hosting of one of the most impactful town hall engagements for the President in Lokoja demonstrated what sincere grassroots mobilization looks like. Thousands of ward-level mobilizers drawn from across the state gathered not merely to endorse a project, but to be equipped and organized for effective political engagement. That effort gained momentum because it was driven by purpose and authenticity, not compulsion.
Beyond mobilization, Senator Karimi has translated political loyalty into tangible social impact. His empowerment initiatives span communities and demographics across the state. Notably, the ongoing distribution of 1,500 bags of rice per ward across all 21 local governments reflects a leadership style that recognizes present realities, hunger, hardship, and the dignity of ordinary people. This is not episodic charity; it is structured intervention rooted in responsibility and empathy.
One particularly beautiful and reassuring aspect of this political season is the changed rule of engagement. Unlike in the past, when party primaries were largely determined by a small circle of delegates and elite bargaining, the new electoral law has fundamentally shifted power to the grassroots. The introduction of direct primaries ensures that every registered party member now participates directly in choosing candidates, beginning from the ward level.
This reform represents a historic opening for Kogi West. For the first time in a long while, the collective will of party members cannot easily be subverted by backroom arrangements or external imposition. The people now have the freedom to make their choice openly and transparently. This development perfectly aligns with the principles Senator Karimi has consistently defended, equity, openness, and popular participation. Direct primaries reward genuine grassroots connection and proven service, not artificial structures.
For the people of Kogi West, therefore, the political task before us is both clear and strategic. The reelection of President Tinubu and Senator Karimi must be pursued as a joint political project. Separating the two weakens our voice and diminishes our bargaining power; combining them sends a strong and unmistakable message of loyalty, alignment, and demand for fairness. Supporting President Tinubu secures continuity, reform, and stability at the national level. Supporting Senator Karimi secures justice, representation, and relevance for Kogi West.
Equity is never accidental. It is achieved through conscious and deliberate political choices. Reelecting both men is not only fair, it is wise. It affirms Kogi West’s commitment to justice within the state and constructive partnership at the center. This election season presents a defining moment. The process is open. The power is with the people. History will remember how we used it.
*Let’s do it together.*