Sen. Karimi joins VP Kashim Shettima to receive former Governor Idris Wada into APC
Lokoja, Nigeria – Senator Sunday Steve Karimi of Kogi West joined Vice President Kashim Shettima to welcome former Kogi State Governor Idris Wada into the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Lokoja, Monday, November 17, 2025.
The event, held at Muhammadu Buhari Square, marked a significant political shift in Kogi State, with Wada leaving the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) to join the APC.
Karimi, a vocal supporter of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s re-election bid, assured the President that Kogi West is solidly behind him for the 2027 elections.
“The people of Kogi, particularly in Kogi West, are ready to reelect him,” Karimi said, thanking residents for their massive turnout to witness the historic defection.
Other notable defectors included Hon. Sam Abenemi, the immediate past Social Democratic Party (SDP) Deputy Governorship candidate, Rt Hon Alfa Immah, former Speaker of the Kogi State House of Assembly, and three current opposition members in the assembly.
Karimi emphasized Kogi State’s united stance on Tinubu’s re-election, stating there’s no alternative or Plan B.
This defection is seen as a major boost for the APC in Kogi State, with Karimi’s support playing a key role.
As Chairman of the Senate Committee on Senate Services, Karimi has been instrumental in promoting development in Kogi West, including constructing a military base and solar-powered boreholes.
