Former Ondo State Governor Joins All Progressives Congress
Dr. Olusegun Mimiko, the former governor of Ondo State, officially joined the All Progressives Congress (APC) on Thursday at the Ward 7 Secretariat in the Ondo West Local Government Area. His transition from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the APC marks a significant shift in his political alignment.
Upon his entry into the APC, Mimiko was welcomed by a cohort that included the ward executive members, local government executives, and party state chairman Hon. Kolawole Babatunde, along with numerous party supporters from Ondo City.
Mimiko expressed his commitment to supporting the initiatives undertaken by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, acknowledging the achievements thus far. “While much good has been achieved, there is still a great deal to accomplish. I am here to promote the ongoing efforts to steer Nigeria toward peace, progress, and authentic development,” he stated.
He further recognized the government’s initiatives aimed at enhancing access to education and the ongoing moves to decentralize the police force, calling them commendable actions worthy of acknowledgement. “These efforts align with my supportive stance on National Policies, making my involvement in the current administration gratifying,” he added.
This political shift comes after many of Mimiko’s close allies transitioned to the APC ahead of the previous Ondo State governorship elections, while he maintained his membership in the PDP with minimal engagement until his resignation over a month ago. This resignation was clarified by Mimiko himself, as he indicated a need to officially distance from the party amid growing speculation regarding his political status.
Kolawole Babatunde, representing the governor and other party members, lauded Mimiko’s progressive contributions during and beyond his public service. He remarked, “Mimiko exemplifies progressiveness in all aspects of life, and his joining the APC is akin to returning home.”
Joseph Iranola Akinlaja, a former member of the House of Representatives for Ondo East-West Federal Constituency, noted that Mimiko’s transition signifies a full consolidation of his political support within the APC in Ondo State. He added, “Previously, many of us entered the APC with his endorsement, but his official membership now assures us that he will actively contribute to the electoral success of President Tinubu and all party candidates in future elections.”
The event was attended by notable figures including Chairman Olamide Oladiji, Secretary for Infrastructure Olawoe Ayorinde, and several former commissioners and officials from the Ondo State government, marking a significant moment in the local political landscape.
