Dr Abass Mimiko, the Zenith Labour Party candidate in the 2024 Ondo State governorship election, has expressed support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s bid for a second term.
Mimiko said he believes the President should be given more time to continue implementing his economic reforms.
He spoke during an interaction with journalists in Ondo town.
Why Mimiko Supports Tinubu
Mimiko said his position was influenced by the economic conditions he believes the Tinubu administration inherited in 2023.
He highlighted the removal of the petrol subsidy as a major policy decision.
He argued that maintaining the previous subsidy arrangement would have continued to place pressure on government finances.
Mimiko therefore urged Nigerians to consider both the immediate effects of the reforms and their longer-term objectives.
Plans for One Love Coalition
Mimiko also revealed plans to establish the One Love Coalition for Tinubu.
The proposed group is expected to bring together supporters of the President who are not members of the APC.
Mimiko said he does not need to leave the Zenith Labour Party to support Tinubu.
He maintained that he remains a committed ZLP member.
According to reports, he plans to use the coalition to mobilise support for Tinubu ahead of the 2027 presidential election.
Governors Should Explain How Funds Are Used
The Ondo politician also shifted attention to state governments.
He said governors now have greater resources and should explain how those funds are being used.
Mimiko said citizens should expect improvements in infrastructure and public services when government revenue increases.
He also urged state governments to invest more in agriculture, education and healthcare.
Call for Education Investment
On education in Ondo State, Mimiko advised Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa to focus on improving existing tertiary institutions.
He said building more institutions would not solve the problem if existing schools were struggling to retain qualified lecturers.
He specifically mentioned Adekunle Ajasin University, the Federal Polytechnic, Owo, and the University of Medical Sciences, Ondo.
Mimiko said the state should create better conditions for academic staff and make education a major development priority.
He also supported greater devolution of powers to state and local governments, arguing that governance should be brought closer to the people.
