The unfolding political and judicial dispute in Kogi West has prompted calls for Senator Sunday Karimi to separate the Presidency from the electoral contest and allow the courts to determine the matter on its merits.
The controversy has become more pronounced following the reported move to relocate the court proceedings from Lokoja to Abuja on security grounds, even as Karimi has continued political engagements across Kogi West, including meetings with stakeholders, party leaders, traditional rulers and supporters.
While genuine security concerns should never be dismissed, they should equally be subjected to proper assessment by the relevant security authorities rather than becoming part of a political argument. The contrast between the security claim and the senator’s continued activities across the district has inevitably raised questions that deserve clear answers.
More importantly, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s name should not be drawn unnecessarily into a dispute that is before the judiciary. The President occupies a national office, and his authority should not be presented as a political instrument in a local electoral contest.
If Karimi believes he has a compelling case regarding the disputed electoral matter involving Hon. Aro Samuel Bamidele, the appropriate place to establish it is the courtroom. Evidence, not political influence, should determine the outcome.
Kogi West does not need a contest of political narratives. It needs a credible judicial process, responsible handling of security concerns and respect for institutions. Karimi is entitled to pursue his legal rights, but he should allow the court to speak for itself and keep the Presidency out of a dispute that should ultimately be decided by the evidence before the judiciary.
