Kogi Senator Blasted For Claiming Those Who Attended Tinubu's Endorsement Rally Were Coerced

Kogi Senator Blasted For Claiming Those Who Attended Tinubu's Endorsement Rally Were Coerced

  • Kogi Alliance for Renewed Hope (KARH) has said residents’ support for President Tinubu was voluntary and rooted in visible development achievements
  • The group accused Senator Sunday Karimi of being out of touch with grassroots realities after he claimed citizens were forced to attend Tinubu’s rally
  • KARH maintained that from Lokoja to Okene, Kogi people remained loyal to Tinubu ahead of the 2027 elections due to his inclusive leadership

The Kogi Alliance for Renewed Hope (KARH) has faulted recent remarks by Senator Sunday Steve Karimi, describing them as misleading and unrepresentative of the political reality in the state.

The senator had claimed that residents were being forced to show support for President Bola Tinubu during a rally in Lokoja.

President Bola Tinubu receives political backing from Kogi state ahead of 2027 as group blasts Senator Sunday Karimi.
Senator Sunday Karimi faces backlash from Kogi political groups over remarks on President Bola Tinubu's rally. Photo: FB/ABAT,SundayKarimi
Source: Facebook

KARH Reaffirms Grassroots Loyalty to Tinubu

In a statement signed by the group’s President, Toba Ogundele, and Secretary, Idris Abubakar, KARH maintained that the people of Kogi are fully and voluntarily behind President Tinubu ahead of the 2027 election.

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The statement described Karimi’s comments as “disrespectful and detached from the genuine sentiments of Kogites.”

According to the group, the Lokoja rally that drew large crowds of party supporters, traditional rulers, and community leaders was not a forced gathering but an open display of confidence in the President’s leadership

It added that the event reflected the spontaneous will of the people who are witnessing real impact from Tinubu’s administration.

“The people of Kogi State do not need to be coerced to support President Tinubu — they are already convinced by his actions and performance,” the statement said.
“From infrastructural projects to the appointment of deserving Kogi indigenes, Mr President has shown fairness and inclusion that speak louder than campaign slogans.”
President Bola Tinubu gets commendations from Kogi group ahead of 2027 elections as Senator Sunday Karimi gets dragged.
Senator Sunday Karimi faces backlash for saying recent pro-Bola Tinubu rally was staged and its attendants coerced. Photo: FB/ABAT,SundayKarimi
Source: Facebook

Criticism Seen as Out of Touch with People

The group expressed disappointment that a senator elected by the same people would describe their enthusiasm as coercion.

It said the president’s policies have improved rural infrastructure, boosted small businesses, and increased federal allocations that benefit Kogi communities.

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“It is disappointing that a senator who benefited from the goodwill of the same people will dismiss their enthusiasm as coercion,” KARH stated.
“President Tinubu’s initiatives have brought measurable progress. These are tangible outcomes, not empty promises.”

KARH also accused Karimi of attempting to exploit public sentiment for personal advantage as the 2027 elections approach.

The group noted that from Lokoja to Kabba and Okene to Ankpa, support for Tinubu remains strong among ordinary citizens who appreciate the government’s developmental focus.

“Senator Karimi’s attempt to discredit a peaceful and democratic endorsement only exposes his disconnection from the grassroots,” the group added.

The forum urged all political actors in Kogi to work together to maintain unity within the All Progressives Congress (APC). It described Tinubu’s leadership as one that prioritises youth empowerment, infrastructure renewal, and inclusive governance.

“President Tinubu has shown commitment to Kogi’s progress. The people of this state will willingly vote for him again in 2027 because his record speaks for itself,” the statement concluded.

Yahaya Bello hails Tinubu at rally

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Earlier, Legit.ng reported that former Kogi state Governor Yahaya Bello had described Tinubu as the “angel” sent by God to restore Nigeria and guide the country toward progress.

Bello made the statement on Saturday during an endorsement rally for President Tinubu and Kogi State Governor Usman Ododo, which was aired live by TVC..

Proofreading by James Ojo, copy editor at Legit.ng.

Source: Legit.ng

Authors:
Ibrahim Sofiyullaha avatar

Ibrahim Sofiyullaha (Editorial Assistant) Ibrahim Sofiyullaha is a graduate of First Technical University, Ibadan. He was the founder and pioneer Editor-in-Chief of a fast-rising campus journalism outfit at his university. Ibrahim is a coauthor of the book Julie, or Sylvia, written in collaboration with two prominent Western authors. He was ranked as the 9th best young writer in Africa by the International Sports Press Association. Ibrahim has contributed insightful articles for major platforms, including Sportskeeda in the UK and Motherly in the United States. Email: ibrahim.sofiyullaha@corp.legit.ng

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