Former Ondo Governor Mimiko Joins APC, Backs Tinubu For 2027

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

Mimiko announced his decision on Thursday during a gathering of APC leaders and supporters at the party’s Ward 7 Secretariat in Ondo West Local Government Area of Ondo State.

The former governor, who recently resigned from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), was received by ward and local government executives of the APC, alongside the state chairman and party supporters.

Speaking at the event, Mimiko said despite the current economic challenges facing Nigerians, he remained convinced that the Tinubu administration had laid the foundation for long-term national growth and development.

He said his decision to join the APC was influenced by what he described as the party’s progressive ideals, particularly in the areas of industrialisation, education and social welfare.

According to him, the administration’s “Nigeria First” industrial policy has the potential to transform local industries and expand economic opportunities for citizens.

“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,” he said.

“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,” he added.

Mimiko also pledged loyalty to the APC leadership in Ondo State and promised to support the party’s growth and President Tinubu’s re-election bid 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 stated.

Welcoming the former governor into the party, Ondo State APC Chairman, Babatunde Kolawole, described Mimiko’s defection as a major political boost for the ruling party.

Kolawole said 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.

He added that Mimiko’s contributions to governance, infrastructure, healthcare and human capital development during his administration had continued to attract admiration across political divides.

According to him, the former governor’s entry into the APC has further strengthened the party ahead of future elections.