By CHARLES CHIJIOKE
Former Ondo State Governor Olusegun Mimiko has officially joined the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), marking another significant political realignment ahead of the 2027 election cycle.
Mimiko, who governed Ondo State from 2009 to 2017, formally declared for the APC on Thursday at the party’s Ward 7 Secretariat in Ondo West Local Government Area, weeks after resigning from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in April.
Explaining his decision, Mimiko said his move was motivated by a desire to contribute more directly to Nigeria’s socio-economic and political development. He also openly aligned himself with the 2027 re-election ambition of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Speaking at the event, Mimiko maintained that despite prevailing economic difficulties across the country, he believes ongoing reforms under the Tinubu administration are creating a foundation for long-term national progress.
His defection adds another layer to the growing political movements and strategic repositioning taking shape ahead of the next general elections. As major parties intensify efforts to consolidate influence, high-profile defections are increasingly becoming a defining feature of Nigeria’s evolving political landscape.
Welcoming him into the APC fold, Ondo State APC Chairman Kolawole Babatunde described Mimiko’s arrival as a major boost for the party’s structure and future electoral prospects in the state.
Babatunde praised the former governor’s leadership credentials and contributions to the development of Ondo State and the country, noting that both the party hierarchy and the state government were pleased to receive him.
Political observers may view Mimiko’s move as potentially consequential for opposition calculations in Ondo and the South-West region. His political network and longstanding influence could strengthen APC’s local footing while raising fresh questions about shifting alliances ahead of 2027.
The development also comes amid increasing political activity nationwide, with parties and influential figures gradually positioning for what is expected to become a highly competitive election season.
