Tensions Rise in Kogi APC Over Karimi's Senate Bid

Political tensions are escalating within the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kogi State regarding Senator Sunday Karimi's ambition for the 2027 Senate seat. Karimi won the party's senatorial primary on May 18, 2026, with 51,665 votes, as announced by returning officer Isah Haruna.

However, Hon. Samuel Bamidele Aro, one of the aspirants who withdrew before the vote, has challenged the primary's outcome in the Federal High Court in Lokoja. Despite the APC National Working Committee reaffirming Karimi as the candidate, internal disputes have surfaced, particularly among Kogi West party members.

A meeting of the Kogi West APC Leaders Forum questioned the primary's outcome, leading to criticism from the Kogi West Elders Assembly, which stated the forum did not represent the entire party leadership. Allegations of selective disciplinary actions against officials supporting Karimi have also emerged.

Chief Elijah Ola Olorunsuwa urged the APC to prioritize unity to enhance electoral prospects, emphasizing the need to address internal divisions before the 2027 elections.