Ondo Ex-Gov Mimiko Joins APC, Endorses Tinubu’s Reforms

A former governor of Ondo State, Dr Olusegun Mimiko, has joined the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), declaring support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Mimiko announced his decision yesterday during a gathering of APC leaders and supporters at his Ward 7 Secretariat in Ondo City, Ondo West Local Government Area.

The ex-governor, who had resigned his membership of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), was received by the Ward Executive of the Party, the Local Government Executive, the State Chairman of the Party, and party faithful from within the state.

He noted that despite the current economic hardship facing Nigerians, he remained convinced that the Tinubu administration had laid the foundation for national growth and long-term development.

Mimiko added that the progressive ideals of the APC, particularly in the areas of industrialisation, education and social welfare, informed his decision to align with the party.

According to him, a “Nigeria First” industrial policy would help revolutionise local industries and create economic opportunities for citizens across the country.

He said, “There are a lot of good things being done by the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu-led government, and though much more will still have to be done, I am coming in to lend my support to ongoing efforts to keep Nigeria on the path of peace, progress and genuine development.

“I don’t have any doubt in my mind that things are still very difficult for the masses of this country, but I’m convinced beyond any doubt that the fundamentals upon which this country can progress have been laid by this administration.”

Mimiko further pledged loyalty to the APC leadership in Ondo State, saying he would contribute his quota to the party’s success and the reelection bid of President Tinubu in 2027.

I pledge my support for the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. I pledge my support for the governor of the state. I pledge my support for the progress of our state and our country,” he added.

‎In his remark, the state chairman of APC, Babatunde Kolawole, who welcomed Mimiko on behalf of the governor and other members of the party in the state, described Mimiko’s decamp to the party as a major political gain.

Kolawole stressed that the former governor remained one of the most influential political figures in Ondo State.

‎”Mimiko is a progressive all through, and his coming into the APC is like a homecoming,” he said.

‎The party chairman said Mimiko’s contributions to governance, infrastructure, healthcare and human development during his administration had continued to earn him admiration across political divides, adding that his presence had further strengthened the APC ahead of future elections.